From Dimes to Half Dollars: Your Guide to Barber Coinage
- By Roger Overton
- Jan 27, 2023
The Barber coins, named after their designer Charles E. Barber, are a sought-after series of collectible coins recognizable for their identical iconic design. Barber dimes, quarters, and half dollars are a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the United States Mint. But the Barber coinage series is more than just a collection of beautiful objects — it represents a unique moment in US history. This coin saw the turn of the 20th century, the birth of the modern era, the Spanish-American War, and an era of peace that ended at the same time as the coin with America’s entrance into the War to End All Wars.
With only a handful of rare exceptions, these iconic coins had high mintage, which means they aren't too hard to track down in circulated condition. And with just 25 years of minting, curating a complete Barber coin collection is actually quite feasible. In this guide to the series, you’ll learn more about Barber dimes, quarters, and half dollars, including their rich history, key dates, and rare varieties.