1893 Barber Half Dollar

1893 Barber half dollars are, like all Barber halves, somewhat scarce. They are a popular collectible among numismatists who specialize in 19th- and 20th-century coins, silver coins, and United States coinage. The intense demand for these big, old silver coins, along with the fact that many have been melted or otherwise lost over the last century has put increased pressure on Barber half dollars.

The first Barber half dollar was released in 1892. Designed by Charles E. Barber, the Liberty Head half dollar eventually elevated Barber, who was the United States Mint’s chief engraver at the time, to fame. While numismatists were generally indifferent to the design when it was first released, the public at large like the Barber coin because it was a change from the Seated Liberty design that had been on the half dollar since 1893.

The second year of production for the Barber half dollar was a little stronger in terms of mintage figures than during the first year, with about 4 million halves produced that year across the three mints.

Below is a breakdown of the four types of 1893 Barber half dollars, including their mintages and approximate values:

• 1893 – 1,826,000; $23

• 1893-O – 1,389,000; $38

• 1893-S – 740,000; $165

• 1893 proof – 792; $900

*Values are for coins in a grade of Good-4, unless otherwise noted.

Barber half dollars from 1893 in a grade of Fine or better are especially scarce. The 1893 proof half dollar is difficult to locate in pristine condition, so be prepared to pay higher prices than listed here for premium-quality coins.