Ash
The 1894-S Barber Dime stands as one of the most coveted and enigmatic coins in American numismatics.
With only 24 pieces minted and a mere nine known to exist today, this dime has fetched prices upwards of $1.9 million, making it a legendary treasure among collectors.
Origins of the 1894-S Barber Dime
In 1894, the San Francisco Mint produced a scant 24 Barber dimes, a decision shrouded in mystery. Several theories attempt to explain this limited mintage:
- Audit Discrepancy: One account suggests the mint struck 24 dimes to account for a $2.40 discrepancy in its annual audit.
- Gifts for Bankers: Another theory posits that Mint Superintendent John Daggett ordered the dimes as special gifts for banker friends.
- Personal Keepsakes: It’s also believed Daggett gave three dimes to his daughter, Hallie, advising her to save them. However, she reportedly spent one on ice cream, a story that adds to the coin’s lore.
Design and Specifications
The Barber Dime, designed by Charles E. Barber, features:
- Obverse: A profile of Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap and laurel wreath, with “LIBERTY” inscribed on the headband.
- Reverse: A wreath composed of corn, wheat, maple, and oak leaves encircling the words “ONE DIME.”
Key specifications include:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Diameter: 17.9 mm
- Mintmark: An “S” denoting the San Francisco Mint
Auction History and Value
The rarity and mystique of the 1894-S Barber Dime have led to impressive auction results:
- 2005: One specimen sold for $1.3 million.
- 2007: The finest known example, graded Proof-66, fetched a record $1.9 million.
- 2016: Another dime achieved nearly $2 million at auction.
- 2019: A Proof-63 graded coin sold for $1.32 million.
These figures underscore the coin’s status as a pinnacle of American coin collecting.
Known Specimens
Of the original 24 dimes, only nine are confirmed to exist today. Each has a unique history and condition, contributing to its individual value.
The “Ice Cream Specimen,” believed to be the coin Hallie Daggett spent, is among the most storied.
Quick Reference
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Minted | 1894 |
| Mint Location | San Francisco (“S” mintmark) |
| Total Mintage | 24 |
| Known Surviving | 9 |
| Designer | Charles E. Barber |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Highest Auction | $1.9 million (2007) |
| Latest Auction | $2.16 million (2025) |
The 1894-S Barber Dime is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of American history wrapped in mystery and allure.
Its limited mintage, combined with captivating stories and record-breaking auction prices, cements its status as a numismatic legend.
For collectors and enthusiasts, encountering this dime is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
FAQs
Why were only 24 of these dimes minted?
The exact reason remains uncertain. Theories include correcting a $2.40 audit discrepancy, creating special gifts for bankers, or producing keepsakes for the Mint Superintendent’s daughter.
How many 1894-S Barber Dimes exist today?
Only nine specimens are known to survive, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.Wikipedia
What makes the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
Its extreme rarity, historical intrigue, and the stories surrounding its origin contribute to its high value among collectors.