1896 Barber Half Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1896 Barber Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Barber Half Dollars 1892-1915 series. In 1896, coins were struck at the San Francisco, New Orleans, and Philadelphia Mints with a combined mintage of 3.0 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 a heraldic eagle with shield on breast, olive branch and arrows in talons, with a banner reading E PLURIBUS UNUM. The 1896-S and 1896-O are semi-key dates with limited branch mint production. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Across its variants, estimated values range from $79 to $15K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $123K in MS67 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 Half Dollar
1896 (S) Barber Half Dollar
1896 Barber Half Dollar
1896 Proof Barber Half Dollar
Other Base Coins in This Series
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