Barber Half Dollar Value
1892–1915 · 50¢ · 90% silver, 10% copper
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $15.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $25.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $70.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $300.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $900.00 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $4,500 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1892-O | Micro O mintmark variety — extremely rare | $200–$10,000 |
| 1893-S | Low mintage San Francisco issue | $100–$5,000 |
| 1897-O | Key date with only 632,000 minted | $50–$3,000 |
| 1904-S | Scarce San Francisco date | $100–$4,000 |
| 1913 | Low mintage Philadelphia issue | $80–$2,500 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Charles E. Barber
- Years
- 1892–1915
- Denomination
- 50¢
- Composition
- 90% silver, 10% copper
- Diameter
- 30.6 mm
- Weight
- 12.5 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Barber Half Dollar: History & Background
The Barber Half Dollar was designed by US Mint Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber and features a right-facing Liberty wearing a laurel wreath and Phrygian cap. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with a shield, similar to the other Barber denominations. Produced from 1892 to 1915 at Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, New Orleans, and briefly at the Denver Mint starting in 1906. Many dates had low mintages, particularly the branch mint issues, making this a challenging series to complete. The coin contains 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver.
How to Grade a Barber Half Dollar
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →