United States Barber Quarter (Liberty Head Quarter Doll), 90% Silver
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, specifically the Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, or Denver branch depending on the mint mark.
Pattern: Barber Quarters (1892-1916), designed by Charles E. Barber.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, specifically the Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, or Denver branch depending on the mint mark.
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver). Net silver weight: 0.1808 troy oz (5.62g pure silver).
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.3 mm, Thickness: 1.75 mm, Standard New Weight: 6.25 grams (subject to wear loss).
Description
A circulated silver Barber Quarter, named for its designer Charles E. Barber. The reverse shows a heraldic eagle holding an olive branch and arrows, carrying a ribbon inscribed 'E Pluribus Unum'.
Key Features
Heraldic Eagle reverse, 13 stars above the eagle, 90% silver content, reeded edge, and recessed field design.
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver). Net silver weight: 0.1808 troy oz (5.62g pure silver).
Finish & Decoration
Circulated finish with heavy sulfide tarnish. Features the Heraldic Eagle on the reverse (visible), based on the Great Seal of the United States.
Hallmarks & Stamps
U.S. Mint marks; 'QUARTER DOLLAR' on reverse and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' across the top edge. Date and Liberty head on obverse (hidden).
Construction Details
Planchet-fed, die-struck industrial coinage using steam or electric-driven toggle-joint presses.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (milled) to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of silver from the edges, a security feature for precious metal currency.
Handle & Grip Details
None; coin is designed for pocket/hand exchange with a raised rim to protect the interior design.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck precision from the late 19th-century industrial minting process, featuring high-relief engraving translated from master hubs.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic wear patterns for a 90% silver planchet, correct diameter relative to the user's hand, and authentic US Mint typography.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America. Principal mints included Philadelphia (no mark), Denver (D), San Francisco (S), or New Orleans (O).
Era & Period
The 'Gilded Age' to WWI era. Classical revival style influenced by late-19th-century French numismatics.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1892 and 1916. Specific date is on the reverse side (currently facing the fingers).
Cultural Significance
Represents the standard silver currency of the US prior to the removal of precious metals from circulating coins in 1965.
Condition Notes
Poor to About Good (AG-3). Significant surface oxidation/toning, heavy circulation wear, loss of detail in feathers and shield.
Value Estimate
$7 to $15 for common dates in this condition; rare dates/mints like 1896-S, 1901-S, or 1913-S can be worth thousands even in worn condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or capsule to prevent further tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Standing Liberty Quarter (1916-1930) and Washington Quarter (90% silver versions, 1932-1964).
Interesting Facts
Charles Barber, the designer, was the son of William Barber (6th Chief Engraver). This pattern was part of a major redesign of US coinage that also included the dime and half dollar.