The Barber Quarter, officially known as the "Liberty Head" quarter, was designed by Charles E. Barber in 1891. Struck by the U.S. Mint from 1892 to 1916, these quarters received mixed reviews from the public during their circulation. Eventually, the Barber quarter was replaced by the Standing Liberty quarter in 1916.
From 1836, the Seated Liberty design was a staple on most regular-issue silver United States coinage. By the late 1880s, Mint Director Edward O. Leech faced mounting pressure from the public and politicians to update the coin designs. In response, Leech initiated a design competition in 1891 to find a new look for the silver coins. Authorized by Congress to approve coin redesigns, Leech, along with newly appointed chief engraver Charles Barber, set strict parameters for the competition, including that only the winner would receive a cash prize. This led to dissatisfaction among the invited artists, who chose not to participate. With no suitable entries from the public, Leech directed Barber to create new designs for the dime, quarter, and half dollar. Barber’s designs were approved by President Benjamin Harrison in November 1891, and the coins began production the following January.
The Barber Quarters contain 90% silver and 10% copper. The obverse features Liberty facing right, wearing a pileus (a brimless felt cap from Ancient Greece) and a headband inscribed with "Liberty." The motto "In God We Trust" appears above Liberty’s head, surrounded by 13 six-pointed stars. The reverse showcases a heraldic eagle, based on the Great Seal of the United States. The eagle holds a scroll in its beak inscribed with "E Pluribus Unum" and grasps an olive branch and 13 arrows in its talons. Thirteen five-pointed stars are arrayed above the eagle.
Some Barber Quarters are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical context. Notable key date issues include:
Barber Quarters are relatively easy to find compared to other American silver coinage, making them an attainable goal for collectors. Common dates and mint marks in "Good" condition typically range from $6 to $50, while coins in MS 63 condition can fetch between $500 and $2,000 or more. Collecting Barber Quarters not only allows one to own a piece of American history but also to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of late 19th and early 20th-century coinage. For an accurate assessment of your coins, having them graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) can be highly beneficial.
For those seeking to build a comprehensive collection, focusing on the different mintmarks and years can provide an exciting and rewarding challenge. The various mints involved in the production of Barber Quarters include Philadelphia, Denver, and New Orleans, each with its unique mint mark.
The Barber Quarter remains an essential piece of American coinage history. With its rich design and various key dates, it offers collectors a glimpse into the transitional period of U.S. coinage. The legacy of the Barber Quarter is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American coin designs. Whether you are a novice or an experienced collector, Barber Quarters make a worthy addition to any collection. At Bullion Hunters, we provide expert advice and a wide selection of collectible coins. Visit our website or contact us to explore our inventory and enhance your collection with these timeless treasures.