Barber Quarters are an interesting and popular type of U.S. coin. While many collectors dream of owning perfect, high-quality Barber Quarters, most people are more interested in well-worn, circulated coins that are much easier to find and afford. In this article, we will explore what Barber Quarters are, their key dates, and recent auction results that highlight their appeal. This information is perfect for both new collectors and those looking to expand their collections without breaking the bank.
What are Barber Quarters?
Barber Quarters were made in the United States from 1892 to 1916. These coins are named after Charles Barber, who designed them. The Barber Quarter features a beautiful design on the front, known as the obverse, showing a profile of Liberty. The back, or reverse, shows a proud eagle.
Barber Quarters contain 90% silver, making them valuable. Even coins that have seen a lot of use can show pleasing designs. Many collectors enjoy collecting Barber Quarters that are in various conditions. Some might even remember when these coins were much cheaper.
Barber Quarters were produced at four different U.S. Mints:
- Philadelphia (no mintmark)
- New Orleans (marked with an “O”)
- Denver (marked with a “D”)
- San Francisco (marked with an “S”)
Many common Barber Quarters, especially from the 20th century, are often available for slightly above their melt value, which is determined by the current market price of silver.
Key Date | Auction Price (Grade) | Comments |
---|---|---|
1896-S | $644 (Good-04) | Recent sale shows steady demand. |
1901-S | $3,393 (AG-03) | Scarcity drives high prices. |
1913-S | $489 (Fair-02) | Affordable for collectors. |
Mint Location | Common Dates Price (Good-04) | Notable Coins |
---|---|---|
Philadelphia | $8 – $10 | 1915-D, 1916-D |
New Orleans | $8 – $12 | 1908-O |
San Francisco | $12 – $20 | 1914-S |
Key Dates in the Barber Quarter Series
The Barber Quarter series includes three key dates that are particularly valuable:
- 1896-S
- 1901-S
- 1913-S
These coins can be expensive compared to other Barber Quarters. Collectors often look for these key dates to complete their sets or simply to own a piece of history.
Recent Auction Results
Recently, at an auction held by Goldbergs on September 3rd, several key date Barber Quarters were sold. These sales provide valuable insights into the current market prices for circulated coins:
- 1896-S: A Good-04 graded 1896-S quarter sold for $644. Other Good-06 examples sold for $719 and $834.
- 1901-S: The scarcest Barber Quarter, the 1901-S, saw sales ranging from $2,243 for a CAC approved AG-03 to $3,393 for a similar coin without a CAC sticker.
- 1913-S: This key date sold for $489 for a Fair-02 graded coin and $805 for an AG-03 grade.
These results show that well-worn Barber Quarters still attract serious collectors, even in lower grades.
Collecting Circulated Barber Quarters
If you’re considering starting a collection, focusing on circulated Barber Quarters can be a smart and fun approach. Here are some tips:
- Focus on Key Dates: Even if you can’t afford the best condition, having a low-grade key date can be rewarding.
- Mix and Match: If you’re collecting higher-grade coins, consider adding a few circulated key dates to your collection. They can provide a nice balance and save you money.
- Explore Different Mints: Different mintmarks can add variety to your collection. Try to find coins from different mints to learn more about their history.
- Attend Auctions and Coin Shows: These events are great opportunities to find good deals on Barber Quarters and learn from experienced collectors.
Understanding Market Values
It’s important to understand that market values can change. Prices of Barber Quarters vary based on their condition, rarity, and demand. Collectors should do their research and consider how recent auction results can influence the prices they see at shops or online.
Conclusion
In summary, Barber Quarters are not just beautiful coins; they represent a rich history of U.S. currency. Collecting these quarters, especially the circulated ones, is a great way to enter the world of numismatics without spending too much money. Key dates like the 1896-S, 1901-S, and 1913-S hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and can add significant value to a collection. As you explore this hobby, remember that every coin tells a story, and you can enjoy discovering these stories through collecting.
FAQ’s
What are Barber Quarters, and when were they minted?
Barber Quarters are U.S. coins designed by Charles Barber and minted from 1892 to 1916. They are made of 90% silver and are known for their distinctive design, which features Lady Liberty on the front and a heraldic eagle on the back. These coins are popular among collectors for their historical significance and aesthetic appeal.
Why are some Barber Quarters more expensive than others?
The price of Barber Quarters varies based on their rarity, demand, and condition. Key dates, like the 1896-S, 1901-S, and 1913-S, are more expensive because they were minted in lower quantities. Coins in better grades (like Mint State or AU grades) also tend to command higher prices due to their better condition and lower likelihood of being found in circulation.
How can I determine the grade of a Barber Quarter?
The grade of a Barber Quarter is determined by its physical condition, which is assessed based on criteria like wear, luster, and marks. Professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) evaluate coins and assign grades. For beginners, it may be helpful to refer to grading guides or consult experienced collectors to understand the grading system better.
Are circulated Barber Quarters worth collecting?
Yes, well-circulated Barber Quarters are worth collecting! Many collectors find it enjoyable to assemble sets of circulated coins because they are more affordable than gem-quality coins. Additionally, collecting circulated keys can be a smart strategy for completing a set while keeping costs manageable. These coins have their own charm and history, making them appealing to many collectors.
Where can I buy Barber Quarters?
You can buy Barber Quarters from various places, including coin shops, online auction sites, and coin shows. It’s essential to do some research and compare prices before making a purchase. Buying from reputable dealers or platforms with positive reviews helps ensure that you’re getting authentic coins at fair prices. Always inspect the coins carefully, especially if you’re purchasing circulated examples.