1896 Barber Dime
Base
About This Coin
The 1896 Barber Dime is a United States dime from the Barber Dimes 1892-1916 series. In 1896, coins were struck at the Philadelphia, San Francisco, and New Orleans Mints with a combined mintage of 3.2 million. The obverse features Liberty facing right wearing a Phrygian cap topped by a laurel wreath, with the word LIBERTY on a headband and the reverse displays an agricultural wreath of corn, wheat, oak, and maple enclosing the words ONE DIME. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.5 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Struck two years after the 1894 key date, the lowest-mintage regular issue in the series. Across its variants, estimated values range from $22 to $2.9K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $21K in MS66+ grade at Legend Rare Coin Auctions. Designed by Charles E. Barber.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(4)
1896 (O) Barber Dime
1896 (S) Barber Dime
1896 Barber Dime
1896 Proof Barber Dime
Other Base Coins in This Series
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