1916 Barber Dime

1916 was the last year of the Barber dime series, which was designed by namesake U.S. Mint Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber and first officially struck in 1892. With 25 production years behind it, the Barber dime was now eligible for redesign, and that was precisely what would happen. However, the Barber dime continued to be minted in strong numbers, even though its demise was right around the corner.

Here’s a look at the mintage figures and values from 1916:

• 1916 – 18,490,000; $5

• 1916-S – 5,820,000; $5

*Values are for coins in a grade of Good-4.

Note, firstly, that there were no proof dimes minted in 1916. The previous year was the last during which Barber dime proof coins were minted. Also notice that the Denver mint did not strike any Barber dimes in 1916. The Mile High City did in fact go on to produce dimes that year, but only small numbers of Mercury dimes (designed by Adolph A. Weinman). The 1916-D Mercury dime would become one of the most popular modern-day rarities, almost as much so as the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent. Of course, though, those are two coins for two other articles. Suffice it to say, both 1916 Barber dimes (the Philadelphia and San Francisco issues) are easily obtainable and make great last-year type coins.