Philadelphia Mint Barber Half Dollars of 1904: A Collectible Treasure

Barber Half Dollars may not get the same spotlight as other coins, but collectors know their value, especially the ones minted in 1904. These coins are often misunderstood and believed to be more common than they actually are. As we explore the 1904 Barber Half Dollars, we’ll uncover why they’re rare in higher grades, their significance, and how to approach collecting them. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, this guide will give you a clearer picture of these historic coins.

What Are Barber Half Dollars?

Barber Half Dollars, named after their designer Charles Barber, were first minted in 1892 and remained in production until 1915. They share a design with Barber Dimes and Barber Quarters, but their reverse side—featuring a heraldic eagle—sets them apart. This eagle design wouldn’t have fit on a smaller coin like the dime, which adds uniqueness to the half dollar.

While Barber Half Dollars are not the most expensive coins out there, they are still pricier than Walking Liberty or Franklin Half Dollars, especially in higher grades. A complete set of Barber Half Dollars, featuring coins from four different U.S. Mints, could cost around $2,500 in lower grades. However, the 1904 Barber Half Dollar, particularly the one from the San Francisco Mint (marked with an “S”), is highly sought after by collectors.

Why the 1904 Barber Half Dollar is Special

The 1904 Barber Half Dollar from the Philadelphia Mint (which has no mintmark) is often overshadowed by the rarer 1904-S, but it’s still a valuable coin. Many collectors mistakenly believe that there are plenty of 1904 halves in great condition, but the reality is quite the opposite. In fact, fewer than 8,000 1904 business strike Barber Half Dollars are thought to exist in collectible condition, and fewer than 450 of them are in grades of AU-50 (Almost Uncirculated) or higher.

Dr. Steven Duckor, a renowned coin collector, has stated that high-grade Barber Halves, like those from 1904, are significantly rarer than their dime and quarter counterparts. Only a handful of 1904 halves have been graded in Gem Mint State 65 or higher.

Grading Scale for 1904 Barber Half Dollars

Grade	Description	Approximate Price
AG-03	About Good, heavily worn	$15 – $25
VG-08	Very Good, moderate wear	$20 – $30
XF-40	Extremely Fine, slight wear	$200 – $300
MS-67+	Mint State, near perfect	$50,000+

Mintmarks on Barber Half Dollars

Mintmark	Mint Location	Year of Issue
None	Philadelphia	1892-1915
S	San Francisco	1892-1915
O	New Orleans	1892-1909
D	Denver	1906-1915

Differences Between Business Strikes and Proofs

It’s important to understand the difference between business strikes and Proof coins. Business strikes are regular coins made for circulation, while Proof coins are specially made for collectors. Proofs are struck multiple times with polished dies, giving them a shinier, more detailed appearance.

While business strikes of the 1904 Barber Half Dollar are rare in top conditions, there are around 385 Proof coins from the same year, many of which are still in collectible condition. In an upcoming auction, two Proof 1904 halves will be sold, one graded as Proof-64 and the other as Proof-61. These Proofs offer a more affordable option for collectors interested in the 1904 Barber Half Dollar.

Collecting Tips: Condition Rarities and Market Prices

Barber Half Dollars, particularly the 1904 coins, are known for being condition rarities. A coin that’s graded AU-53, for example, is already considered rare, as only about 450 coins exist in AU-50 or higher grades. Most surviving coins fall into the lower circulated grades, from AG-03 (About Good) to VG-08 (Very Good).

The price range for 1904 Barber Half Dollars can vary widely. A circulated 1904 half in AG-03 condition can be found for less than $15, while a top-grade MS-67+ example, like the Duckor coin, sold for an incredible $51,750 in 2010. For collectors on a budget, a well-circulated 1904 half dollar could be a great option. But for those with a bit more to spend, coins graded XF-40 or higher offer a balance between quality and affordability.

Duckor 1904 Barber Half Dollar: The Finest Example

The finest known 1904 Barber Half Dollar is from Dr. Steven Duckor’s collection. Graded as MS-67+, this coin sold for an astonishing $51,750 in 2010. What sets this coin apart is its exceptional toning and condition, making it a true rarity. Coins like this are few and far between, and they hold immense value for collectors who appreciate both historical significance and physical beauty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 1904 Barber Half Dollar is a coin worth considering for any collector, whether you’re looking for a circulated piece to add to your set or a high-grade gem for investment purposes. While these coins may seem more common than they are, the truth is that finding one in excellent condition is quite rare. Their historical significance, coupled with their condition rarity, makes them an attractive option for both beginner and advanced collectors.

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