Commonly asked questions and answers.
What is the Barber Dime?
The Barber Dime is a coin that was minted by the United States Mint from 1892 to 1916. It was named after its designer, Charles E. Barber, who also designed the Barber Quarter and Barber Half Dollar. The Barber Dime features a depiction of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap on the obverse (front) and an image of a wreath surrounding the denomination on the reverse (back).
What are some key characteristics of the Barber Dime?
The Barber Dime, made of 90% silver and 10% copper, has a diameter of 17.9 mm and a weight of 2.5 grams. It features reeded edges and has a face value of 10 cents. The coin's design is known for its classical and intricate appearance, with Liberty's head facing right and the reverse displaying a wreath composed of agricultural products such as corn, wheat, and cotton.
Are Barber Dimes valuable?
The value of Barber Dimes can vary depending on factors such as date, mint mark, condition, and rarity. Some Barber Dimes may be more valuable than others due to low mintages or higher demand from collectors. Certain years and mint marks, such as the 1894-S and the 1901-S, are particularly sought after and can command higher prices. It is advisable to consult pricing guides or seek the assistance of reputable coin dealers or numismatic experts to determine the specific value of a Barber Dime in your possession.
What is a dime?
A dime coin is a unit of currency in the United States and Canada that is equal to one-tenth of a dollar. In the United States, the dime is worth 10 cents, while in Canada, it is worth 10 cents in Canadian currency. Dime coins are commonly used for everyday transactions and are part of the circulating currency in both countries.
Who is depicted on the dime in the United States?
In the United States, the dime coin features a depiction of President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse (front) side. This design has been used since 1946 and replaced the previous design featuring Liberty, known as the Mercury Dime. The reverse (back) side of the U.S. dime displays an image of a torch, an olive branch, and an oak branch.
Are there different types of dime coins?
Yes, there have been different types of dime coins throughout history. In the United States, notable series include the Barber Dime (1892-1916) designed by Charles E. Barber, the Mercury Dime (1916-1945) featuring Liberty with wings on her cap, and the Roosevelt Dime (1946-present) featuring Franklin D. Roosevelt. Each series has its own unique designs and variations, making them sought after by collectors. Similarly, in Canada, dime coins have had different designs and variations over the years, reflecting various symbols and important figures in Canadian history.
