1898 Barber Dime

About This Coin

The 1898 Barber Dime is a United States dime from the Barber Dimes 1892-1916 series — 7th of 25 years in the series. In 1898, coins were struck at the New Orleans, Philadelphia, and San Francisco Mints with a combined mintage of 20.2 million. This ranks 11th of 25 years by total mintage, below the series median of 23.1 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. Collectors have identified one known die variety for this date (repunched date). Produced 4 years after the celebrated 1894 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $13 to $1.6K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $37K in MS67 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Charles E. Barber.