Barber Dimes

The Mint Act of 1890 allowed for the changing of coin designs after 25 years of use, and the dime, quarter, and half dollar were eligible for redesign in 1891.

An initial competition to develop a new design was opened between 10 eminent U.S. sculptors. But when those professional artists presented a list of requirements that included compensation for every entry, whether selected or not, the Treasury Department decided to open the contest to the general public.

Judges for the entries included United States Mint Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, Boston engraver Henry Mitchell, and artist Augustus Saint-Gaudens. None of the submitted entries were deemed satisfactory; only two out of about 300 were even awarded even an Honorable Mention.

Deeming that competition a “wretched failure”, Mint Director Edward Leech assigned Barber to redesign all the eligible coins for a change, which may have been Barber’s goal all along.

In worn circulated condition, Barber Dimes from common dates sell for $8 to $10 USD on sites like eBay. Every Barber Dime is struck in .900 fine silver, and the prevailing spot price of silver can impact the coin’s value.

In higher grades, or for dates that are uncommon or scarce, prices fluctuate.

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