1900-S Barber Dime (Liberty Head Silver Dime)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (San Francisco branch)
Pattern: Barber Head / Liberty Head Design by Charles E. Barber
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (San Francisco branch)
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver)
Dimensions
Diameter: 17.9 mm; Weight: 2.50 grams (when minted); Thickness: 1.35 mm.
Description
This 1900-S Barber Dime represents a classic era of American coinage. Designed by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, it displays a stoic bust of Liberty facing right. This specific piece shows significant circulation wear, consistent with a coin that served as a primary unit of daily commerce in the early 1900s. The 'S' mint mark signifies its origin from the prestigious San Francisco Mint, which produced significantly fewer dimes that year than the Philadelphia Mint.
Key Features
1900 date, 'S' mint mark on reverse, 90% silver content, Barber's signature obverse design.
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver)
Finish & Decoration
Circulated strike with relief engraving; features Lady Liberty in a Phrygian cap and laurel wreath obverse; reverse features a wheat and oak wreath.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'S' mint mark located on the reverse (bottom center); '1900' date on obverse; 'United States of America' lettering.
Construction Details
Die-struck at the San Francisco Mint using a mechanical steam press.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping/shaving of the silver content.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (circular coin form).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck from hand-carved master hubs; the reeded edge remains visible despite surface wear.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic wear patterns for a 90% silver alloy coin; correct font style for '1900' and 'S' mint mark; visible 'Liberty' headband (though heavily worn).
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, San Francisco Mint.
Era & Period
Turn-of-the-century Gilded Age / Progressive Era (late 19th - early 20th century).
Age Estimate
Produced in the year 1900.
Cultural Significance
The Barber Dime was the staple of American commerce from 1892 to 1916, representing the industrial growth of the United States.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition, likely 'Good' (G) to 'Very Good' (VG) on the Sheldon scale. Significant flattening of Liberty's hair and the wreath; heavy tarnish and surface oxidation visible on the monitor view.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD for heavily circulated condition; significantly higher ($200+) in uncirculated (MS) condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; numismatic value is destroyed by chemical or abrasive cleaning. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule.
Similar Pieces
1900 Philadelphia (No mint mark) or 1900 New Orleans (O mint mark) Barber Dimes; later Mercury Dimes (1916-1945).
Interesting Facts
The 1900-S has a relatively low mintage of 2,394,393 pieces compared to the Philadelphia mintage of over 17 million that same year.