Trade Dollar 1873—1885

The Trade Dollar was a silver coin that was minted and used primarily in trade with Asia, particularly China, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here's a brief history of the Trade Dollar:

The Trade Dollar was first issued in 1873 by the United States Mint as a response to the growing trade between the United States and Asia, especially China. The intention was to create a silver coin that could compete with the Spanish 8 reales coins that were widely accepted in the region.

The Trade Dollar was minted with a weight of 27.22 grams (0.8594 troy ounces) and a diameter of 38.1 millimeters. The coin featured Lady Liberty on the obverse and a bald eagle on the reverse, similar to other U.S. silver coins of the time.

Initially, the Trade Dollar was intended for use in both domestic and foreign commerce, and it was legal tender in the United States. However, it gained more popularity in international trade, especially in Asia, where it circulated alongside other silver coins.

The Trade Dollar became particularly popular in China, where it was widely accepted in commercial transactions. It was valued higher than other silver coins due to its higher silver content and superior quality. The Chinese merchants and traders trusted the Trade Dollar, and it became the preferred currency for conducting business in the region.

In 1876, the U.S. government revoked the legal tender status of the Trade Dollar within the United States. This decision was made because many Trade Dollars were being exported to Asia, causing a shortage of silver coins in circulation domestically.

The Trade Dollar was minted in Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Carson City. Over the years, various mint marks were used to denote the different mints. The coin was issued annually from 1873 to 1885, with the exception of 1884 when no coins were produced for circulation. However, a small number of Trade Dollars were minted in 1884 but as proof coins for collectors.

The popularity of the Trade Dollar declined in the 1880s due to various factors, including changes in U.S. trade policies and the devaluation of silver. In 1887, the Coinage Act was passed, demonetizing the Trade Dollar. It was no longer legal tender, and its production ceased.

Despite its relatively short lifespan, the Trade Dollar remains a popular collectible coin among numismatists and coin collectors. Its historical significance, association with international trade, and limited availability contribute to its appeal.

It's worth noting that there have been later attempts to revive the Trade Dollar concept, but they were not widely adopted or had limited circulation. The original Trade Dollar remains an important part of numismatic history, symbolizing the economic and cultural connections between the United States and Asia during the late 19th century.

Key Dates

1873: The Trade Dollar was first minted in this year, marking its introduction into circulation.

1875-CC: The 1875-CC Trade Dollar is considered one of the key date issues of the series. It was minted in Carson City (CC) and has a relatively low mintage, making it highly sought after by collectors.

1878: The 1878 Trade Dollar is noteworthy because it marked a transition in the design of the coin. In this year, the reverse design was modified to include the Morgan dollar-style eagle with spread wings, replacing the earlier design with an eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch.

1884: The 1884 Trade Dollar is a notable year for collectors. Although no Trade Dollars were minted for circulation in 1884, a small number of proof coins were produced exclusively for collectors. These proof issues are rare and highly valued.

1885: The 1885 Trade Dollar is another important year for collectors. It marked the final year of regular-issue circulation strikes for the Trade Dollar series. The mintage of the 1885 Trade Dollar is relatively low compared to earlier years, making it a desirable coin.

Barber Quarter 1892—1916

The Barber quarter is a United States coin that was minted from 1892 to 1916. It was designed by Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The Barber quarter is part of a series of coins that also included the Barber dime and Barber half dollar.

The Barber quarter features a similar design to the other coins in the series. The obverse side of the coin depicts the head of Liberty facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap with the word "LIBERTY" inscribed on it. The year of mintage is located below Liberty's neck. The reverse side of the coin features an eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows. Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "QUARTER DOLLAR."

The Barber quarter was produced at several U.S. Mint facilities, including Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O mint mark), San Francisco (S mint mark), and Denver (D mint mark). The mintage numbers varied from year to year and across different mint facilities. The highest mintage occurred in 1901, with over 19 million quarters produced.

There are a few notable varieties and rarities within the Barber quarter series. One of the most famous is the 1896-S Barber quarter, which has a low mintage and is highly sought after by collectors. Another notable variety is the 1901-S quarter, which has a different reverse design known as the "Micro S" variety. This variety features a smaller mint mark than the standard size.

The Barber quarter series came to an end in 1916 when it was replaced by the Standing Liberty quarter. The new design, created by Hermon A. MacNeil, featured a depiction of Liberty standing between two pillars. The change in design was part of a larger effort by the United States Mint to introduce more artistic and modern coinage.

Today, Barber quarters are popular among coin collectors due to their historical significance and attractive design. Many collectors strive to complete a set of Barber quarters, which includes all the different dates and mint marks within the series. The value of Barber quarters can vary depending on their condition, rarity, and overall demand in the numismatic market.

 

Key Dates

1896-S: The 1896-S Barber quarter is one of the most sought-after dates in the series. It has a low mintage of only 188,039 coins, making it quite scarce and valuable.

1901-S: The 1901-S Barber quarter is another important date. It is known for its "Micro S" variety, where the mint mark on the reverse is smaller than the standard size. This variety is highly coveted by collectors.

1913-S: The 1913-S Barber quarter is considered a key date due to its relatively low mintage of 40,000 coins. It is challenging to find in higher grades, making it quite valuable.

1896-O: The 1896-O Barber quarter, minted in New Orleans, has a relatively low mintage of 2,140,000 coins. It is scarce compared to other dates in the series.

1901: Although the 1901 Barber quarter has a higher mintage compared to some other key dates, it is still desirable among collectors due to its limited availability in higher grades.

1914-S: The 1914-S Barber quarter has a mintage of 264,000 coins, which is relatively low. It is often considered a semi-key date in the series.

Flowing Hair Large Cent 1793—1796

The Flowing Hair Large Cent is an early American coin that was minted from 1793 to 1796. It was the first penny struck by the United States Mint and features a depiction of Lady Liberty on the obverse (front) and a wreath on the reverse (back).

The obverse design of the Flowing Hair Large Cent features a portrait of Lady Liberty facing to the right, with her hair flowing behind her. The words "LIBERTY" and the year of minting are inscribed around the edge. The reverse design depicts a wreath with a small bow at the bottom, surrounded by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the denomination "ONE CENT."

There are two major varieties of the Flowing Hair Large Cent. The first variety, minted in 1793, does not have a denomination on the reverse. The second variety, minted from 1794 to 1796, includes the denomination "ONE CENT" on the reverse.

The Flowing Hair Large Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the sole mint facility of the United States at the time.

The Flowing Hair Large Cent is highly sought after by collectors and is considered a rare coin. The value of an individual coin depends on its condition (grade), rarity, and overall desirability. Coins in better condition and with unique characteristics, such as mint errors or historical significance, tend to command higher prices.

The Flowing Hair Large Cent holds historical significance as the first official one-cent coin issued by the United States government. It represents the early years of the nation's coinage system and is a relic of American history.

Key Dates

1793: This is the inaugural year of the Flowing Hair Large Cent, and all coins from this year are considered significant. There are two major varieties of the 1793 cents: the Chain Cent and the Wreath Cent. The Chain Cent features a chain linking the 15 links of the states, symbolizing unity. The Wreath Cent replaced the Chain Cent later in 1793 and features a wreath on the reverse.

1794: The 1794 Flowing Hair Large Cent is an important date in the series. It represents the first full year of production after the introduction of the series. These coins have a lower mintage, making them scarcer and more valuable.

1795: The 1795 Flowing Hair Large Cent is another key date. It has a lower mintage compared to some of the other years in the series, adding to its desirability among collectors.

1796: The 1796 Flowing Hair Large Cent is the final year of the series and is highly sought after. It has a limited mintage, making it one of the scarcest dates in the series.

Liberty Seated Dime 1837—1891

The Liberty Seated Dime is a coin that was produced by the United States Mint from 1837 to 1891. It features a seated representation of Liberty on the obverse (front) and various designs on the reverse (back) depending on the year of issue. The coin gets its name from the depiction of Liberty seated on a rock.

The Liberty Seated Dime went through several design variations and modifications during its production years. Here's a brief overview of its history:

  The Liberty Seated Dime was designed by Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht. The first design, known as the "No Stars" variety, was introduced in 1837 and featured no stars on the obverse. The reverse displayed a wreath surrounding the denomination.

In 1838, stars were added to the obverse of the coin, representing the number of states in the Union at the time. Initially, 13 stars were included, but as more states joined the Union, additional stars were added. The reverse design remained the same during this period.

In 1853, arrows were added on both sides of the date on the obverse to signify a reduction in weight due to changes in the Mint Act. This design change was accompanied by rays emanating from the wreath on the reverse. However, the rays were deemed difficult to strike, and they were removed after 1855.

In 1860, the legend on the obverse was changed from "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" to "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." In 1866, the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" was added to the reverse above the eagle.

The design of the Liberty Seated Dime remained relatively consistent during this period. However, there were minor modifications to the legend on the obverse. In 1873, the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" was moved to the obverse above Liberty. In 1874, the legend was changed to "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" again.

The Liberty Seated Dime series saw several mint marks used to indicate the location where the coin was minted, such as Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S), and Carson City (CC). 

The Liberty Seated Dime was eventually replaced by the Barber Dime in 1892. However, its long production span and historical significance make it a popular choice among coin collectors today.

Key Dates

The 1838-O Liberty Seated Dime is considered a key date because it was the first year of production for the New Orleans Mint. It is relatively scarce and highly valued by collectors.

The 1844 Liberty Seated Dime is significant because it does not have the "IN GOD WE TRUST" motto on the reverse. This makes it one of the few dimes in the series without the motto, as it was added in 1866.

The 1851 Liberty Seated Dime is notable because it is believed that a small number of proof coins were struck that year. These proofs were not officially recorded in mint records, making them highly sought after by collectors.

The 1853-O Liberty Seated Dime is significant because it features arrows on both sides of the date and rays on the reverse. The rays were removed after 1855, making the 1853-O with rays a rare and desirable variety.

The 1871-CC Liberty Seated Dime is highly prized by collectors due to its association with the Carson City Mint. Coins minted at the Carson City Mint generally have low mintages, and the 1871-CC is no exception. It is considered one of the key dates of the series.

The 1873-CC Liberty Seated Dime is significant because it is the only year in which dimes were struck at the Carson City Mint without arrows flanking the date. It has a low mintage and is highly sought after by collectors.

 

Coronet Head Cent 1808—1814

The Classic Head Cent refers to a series of United States one-cent coins that were minted from 1808 to 1814. It was designed by John Reich, who was an assistant to Chief Engraver Robert Scot at the United States Mint.

The Classic Head Cent was introduced as a replacement for the Draped Bust Cent, which had been in circulation since 1796. The design of the Classic Head Cent featured a left-facing Liberty wearing a headband inscribed with the word "Liberty." The reverse of the coin depicted a wreath encircling the denomination "One Cent" and the words "United States of America."

The initial design of the Classic Head Cent featured a plain edge. However, due to concerns about counterfeiting, a raised edge with a series of decorative dots, known as "denticles," was added in 1810.

During its production years, the Classic Head Cent underwent a few modifications. In 1816, the diameter of the coin was reduced slightly to match the size of the half dime, and the design was changed to the Coronet Head Cent.

The Classic Head Cent series saw limited production and circulation. Its mintage numbers were relatively low compared to later cent designs. Additionally, the War of 1812 disrupted coin production and caused further scarcity of these coins.

Today, Classic Head Cents are highly sought after by coin collectors. Their historical significance, limited mintage, and age contribute to their desirability. Well-preserved specimens can command high prices in the numismatic market, depending on their condition and rarity.

Key Dates

1808: The first year of the Classic Head Cent series, featuring the new design by John Reich. The 1808 Classic Head Cent is highly sought after due to its historical significance as the inaugural year of the series.

1809: The 1809 Classic Head Cent is another desirable date. It has a relatively low mintage compared to other years, making it scarce and valuable.

1811: The 1811 Classic Head Cent is considered a key date in the series due to its low mintage and scarcity. It is particularly challenging to find in higher grades, adding to its desirability.

 1814: The 1814 Classic Head Cent is the final year of the series. It has a low mintage and is often sought after by collectors as it represents the end of the Classic Head design.

 

Three-Legged Nickel

A popular coin error known as the "1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel." This error occurred during the minting process when a worker over-polished the reverse of the coin, causing three of the buffalo's legs to be partially or entirely removed. As a result, the buffalo appears to have only three legs. This error is highly sought after by collectors and can be quite valuable.

1937-D 5C 3 Legs (Regular Strike) Buffalo Nickel - PCGS CoinFacts

Buffalo Nickel 1913—1938

The Buffalo Nickel, also known as the Indian Head Nickel, is a famous U.S. coin that was minted from 1913 to 1938. It is highly regarded for its iconic design and historical significance. Here's a brief history of the Buffalo Nickel:

At the turn of the 20th century, the United States Mint sought to replace the Liberty Nickel, which had been in circulation since 1883. The Mint invited various sculptors to submit designs for a new nickel coin. James Earle Fraser, an accomplished American sculptor, was selected for his remarkable design.

The Buffalo Nickel features a composite design that combines elements from different Native American tribes. The obverse (front) of the coin depicts the profile of a Native American man, believed to be a composite image inspired by three different Native American chiefs: Two Moons of the Cheyenne, Iron Tail of the Lakota Sioux, and Big Tree of the Seneca Nation. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed at the top, and the year of minting is shown below the neck.

The reverse (back) of the coin showcases an American bison (often mistakenly referred to as a buffalo) standing on a mound. The bison depicted on the coin is rumored to be modeled after "Black Diamond," a bison living in the New York Central Park Zoo at the time. Surrounding the image are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Latin for "Out of Many, One"), and the denomination "FIVE CENTS."

The Buffalo Nickel was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. The coins produced in Philadelphia (lacking a mintmark) were the most common, while those from the Denver and San Francisco mints carried a "D" and "S" mintmark, respectively.

There were three distinct variations of the design during its production. The first version, minted from 1913 to 1938, featured the denomination on a raised mound, which caused excessive wear on the date and other details. In 1913, an error occurred during the minting process, resulting in some coins displaying the words "FIVE CENTS" on the mound, leading to their classification as "Type 2" Buffalo Nickels. In 1938, the design was modified to recess the denomination below the mound, creating the "Type 2" Buffalo Nickel.

The Buffalo Nickel holds significant historical and cultural value. It symbolizes the spirit of the American West, capturing the essence of Native American culture and the nation's connection to the bison. The coin's popularity among collectors and numismatists has remained strong over the years. Many people appreciate the Buffalo Nickel's artistic appeal, historical context, and the challenges associated with collecting a complete set due to the various mint marks and design variations.

While the Buffalo Nickel is no longer in circulation, it remains a cherished part of American numismatic history and is sought after by coin enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

Key Dates

1913-S Type 2: This is considered one of the most famous key dates in the series. It is the first year of production for the Buffalo Nickel, and the Type 2 variety features the words "FIVE CENTS" on a raised mound, making it distinct from the regular Type 1 variety. The 1913-S Type 2 has a relatively low mintage, making it highly valuable.

1914-D: The 1914-D Buffalo Nickel is another key date in the series. It was minted in Denver and has a lower mintage compared to other years, particularly in the higher grades. The scarcity of this coin contributes to its desirability among collectors.

1916-D: The 1916-D Buffalo Nickel is known for its low mintage, making it a highly sought-after coin. It was minted in Denver and is considered one of the scarcest dates in the series. Finding this coin in higher grades can be quite challenging.

1921-S: The 1921-S Buffalo Nickel is another key date with a relatively low mintage. I

1924-S: The 1924-S Buffalo Nickel is sought after due to its low mintage and the overall scarcity of higher-grade specimens. This coin was minted in San Francisco and is considered one of the more challenging dates to find in top condition.

 

 

Classic Head Half Cent 1809-1836

The Classic Head Half Cent is a series of coins that were minted by the United States from 1809 to 1836. It was the second design for the half cent denomination, following the Draped Bust design.

The obverse (front) of the coin features a left-facing bust of Liberty, wearing a headband inscribed with the word "LIBERTY." The reverse (back) of the coin depicts a wreath encircling the denomination "HALF CENT" and the date.

The Classic Head Half Cent coins were made of copper, with a small amount of added tin and zinc to improve durability. They had a diameter of 23.5 mm.

The coins were minted at the United States Mint in Philadelphia, which was the sole mint producing half cents during this period.

The designer of the Classic Head Half Cent was John Reich, who was an assistant to Chief Engraver Robert Scot at the United States Mint.

The Classic Head Half Cent series has several notable varieties, including variations in the position of the fraction (1/200) and the size of the date. The 1831 issue is particularly famous for having two distinct styles of lettering on the reverse.

Some dates of the Classic Head Half Cent series are quite rare, especially in higher grades of preservation. The 1815 issue is considered the key date of the series, with fewer than 20 known examples in existence.

The production of half cents was discontinued in 1836 due to declining popularity and the rising cost of producing such small denomination coins.

Today, Classic Head Half Cents are highly sought after by coin collectors. The series offers a glimpse into the early

 days of American coinage and holds historical and numismatic value.

Key Dates

1809: The inaugural year of the Classic Head design, making it a popular choice for collectors.

1811: This date is known for having a mintage of fewer than 63,000 coins, making it scarce and highly sought after.

1815: Considered the key date of the series, the 1815 Classic Head Half Cent is extremely rare. It has a mintage of only 35,180 coins, and fewer than 20 examples are known to exist today.

1826: Another low-mintage year, with just over 65,000 coins produced. It is challenging to find in higher grades.

1828: This date is notable for its low mintage and scarcity. Only about 48,000 coins were struck.

1831: The 1831 Classic Head Half Cent has two distinct styles of lettering on the reverse, making it an interesting and desirable variety for collectors.

 

History of the US Army Flag

The history of the United States Army flag is a storied one, reflecting the evolution of the nation's military and its values. The official flag of the United States Army is known as the "Army Flag" or the "Army Colors," and it consists of a white field with the official U.S. Army emblem in blue at the center. Surrounding the emblem are 13 white stars in a circle, representing the original 13 colonies of the United States.

The origins of the Army Flag can be traced back to the Revolutionary War when the Continental Army, led by General George Washington, was fighting for independence from British rule. During this time, various regimental colors were used to signify different units and to serve as a rallying point for the soldiers on the battlefield.

On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the Continental Army and adopted the "American Continental Colors," which featured thirteen red and white stripes. This design, with the addition of the Union Jack in the canton, represented a unity between the American colonies and Great Britain before the Declaration of Independence.

However, as the Revolutionary War progressed, the need for a distinct flag for the United States Army became evident. On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the first official national flag of the United States, known as the "Stars and Stripes" or the "Grand Union Flag." This flag featured thirteen alternating red and white stripes and a Union Jack in the canton, but it also included thirteen white stars representing the thirteen states.

Over time, the number of stars on the flag increased as new states joined the Union. The flag continued to evolve and change, reflecting the growth and expansion of the United States. During the Civil War, various units of the Union Army carried unique regimental colors and battle flags, but there was no standardized national flag for the U.S. Army.

It was not until World War I that the Army adopted the design of the modern-day Army Flag as its official standard. On October 18, 1921, the War Department (now the Department of Defense) established the design for the Army Flag, which is still used to this day.

The Army Flag serves as a symbol of the United States Army's rich history, traditions, and values, and it is displayed on various occasions and ceremonies to honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the U.S. Army throughout its history.

Draped Bust Cent 1796—1807

The Draped Bust Cent is an iconic coin in American numismatic history. It was produced by the United States Mint from 1796 to 1807 and is known for its elegant design featuring the bust of Liberty.

The Draped Bust Cent was the second design used for the large cent, following the Chain Cent design of 1793. The Chain Cent design received criticism for its depiction of a chain linking the 15 individual states, as it was seen as a negative symbol of slavery. In response to the criticism, the United States Mint decided to redesign the cent.

The new design, known as the Draped Bust, was created by Robert Scot, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The obverse of the coin featured a bust of Liberty facing to the right, with her hair tied in a ribbon. The word "LIBERTY" was inscribed above her bust, and the date appeared below. The reverse of the coin featured a wreath encircling the words "ONE CENT" and the fractional denomination "1/100" at the center.

The Draped Bust Cent went through several modifications during its production. The initial design, used in 1796 and part of 1797, featured 15 stars on the obverse to represent the states of the Union at the time. However, as new states joined the Union, it became impractical to add stars for each one. Therefore, starting in mid-1797, the design was modified to have 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies, on the obverse.

In 1798, the reverse design of the Draped Bust Cent was changed. The wreath was replaced by a simpler design featuring a central stalk and leaves. The modified reverse design remained in use until the end of the Draped Bust Cent series in 1807.

Throughout its production, the Draped Bust Cent faced various challenges. Minting techniques of the time resulted in inconsistent quality, and the coins often suffered from weak strikes and planchet imperfections. Additionally, counterfeiting was a prevalent issue, leading to a decline in public confidence in the coin.

In 1808, the United States Mint introduced a new design for the cent, known as the Classic Head Cent, which replaced the Draped Bust design. However, the Draped Bust Cent holds a significant place in American numismatic history as one of the early designs of the United States cent series and a reflection of the country's formative years. Today, the Draped Bust Cents are highly sought after by collectors, with rare dates and varieties commanding high prices in the numismatic market.

Key Dates

1799: The 1799 Draped Bust Cent is considered one of the most important key dates in the series. It has a low mintage and is highly sought after by collectors. The 1799 cent comes in two major varieties: the "9 over 8" variety, where the underlying digit 8 is visible beneath the 9 in the date, and the normal "9" variety.

1796: The 1796 Draped Bust Cent holds a special place as the first year of issue for the series. It has a limited mintage and is quite rare. The 1796 cent is highly sought after by collectors, making it a key date.

1804: The 1804 Draped Bust Cent is another key date known for its scarcity. It has a low mintage, and surviving specimens are rare. Collectors prize the 1804 cent for its historical significance and rarity.

1802: The 1802 Draped Bust Cent is a highly desirable key date due to its low mintage and limited availability. It is challenging to find in high grades, making it sought after by collectors.

1803: The 1803 Draped Bust Cent is considered a key date due to its low mintage and rarity. It is highly sought after by collectors, especially in higher grades.

Barber Half Dollar 1892—1915

The Barber Half Dollar, also known as the Liberty Head Half Dollar, is a coin that was minted in the United States from 1892 to 1915. It was designed by Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time.

The Barber Half Dollar was introduced as part of a coinage redesign in the early 1890s. The obverse features the head of Liberty facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap, with the word "LIBERTY" inscribed above. The reverse depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, holding a shield on its chest, and the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DOLLAR" surrounding it.

The Barber Half Dollar was minted for a total of 24 years, from 1892 to 1915. It was produced at the main mint facilities in Philadelphia (no mintmark), New Orleans (O mintmark), San Francisco (S mintmark), and occasionally in Denver (D mintmark).

Throughout its production, the Barber Half Dollar had a few notable varieties and mintmarks. One of the most famous varieties is the 1892-O Micro O, where the mintmark is smaller than usual. Other notable varieties include the 1892-S Over D and the 1905 Micro S. Mintmarks can be found on the reverse, below the eagle.

The Barber Half Dollar saw extensive circulation during its time, and millions of coins were produced each year. They were used in everyday commerce, and many examples entered circulation, resulting in worn or damaged coins being common.

The design of the Barber Half Dollar received mixed reviews from the public and numismatic community. Some critics felt that Barber's design lacked artistic appeal and compared it unfavorably to the earlier designs by Charles Morgan and George T. Morgan (of Morgan Silver Dollar fame).

The Barber Half Dollar was replaced by the Walking Liberty Half Dollar in 1916. The new design, created by Adolph A. Weinman, was preferred for its more artistic and dynamic portrayal of Liberty.

Today, Barber Half Dollars are collected by numismatists and coin enthusiasts. They are valued not only for their silver content but also for their historical significance and artistic appeal. Well-preserved examples and coins with rare varieties or mintmarks can command higher prices in the numismatic market.

Key Dates

1892-O Micro O: This variety features a smaller mintmark ("O") above the eagle on the reverse. It is highly sought after by collectors.

1892-S: The first year of mintage for the Barber Half Dollar series. It is considered a key date due to its low mintage.

1894: Another low-mintage year, making it one of the scarcer dates in the series.

1897-O: The New Orleans Mint struck a relatively low number of Barber Half Dollars this year, making it a desirable date for collectors.

1901-S: This coin has a lower mintage compared to other dates, especially those from the Philadelphia Mint.

1904-S: Another key date, as it has a relatively low mintage and is sought after by collectors.

1913-S: The San Francisco Mint produced a limited number of Barber Half Dollars in this year, making it a scarce date.

Washington Quarter 1932—1998

The Washington Quarter is a United States coin that has been in circulation since 1932. It features the portrait of George Washington, the first President of the United States, on the obverse (front) side of the coin. The Washington Quarter has a diameter of 24.26 mm (0.955 inches) and is made of a combination of copper (91.67%) and nickel (8.33%).

The Washington Quarter was introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. It replaced the Standing Liberty Quarter and became the official circulating quarter-dollar coin of the United States.

The Washington Quarter was designed by John Flanagan, a sculptor from New York. The obverse side features the bust of George Washington facing left, with the inscriptions "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST" surrounding the portrait. The reverse side depicts an eagle with wings spread, perched on a bundle of arrows and an olive branch. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "QUARTER DOLLAR," and the mint mark appear on the reverse side.

From 1932 to 1964, Washington Quarters were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. These coins are highly sought after by collectors for their silver content. In 1965, due to a silver shortage, the composition was changed to a copper-nickel clad, which is the same composition used in today's quarters.

The Washington Quarter continues to be minted and circulated today. While the design on the reverse side changes periodically, George Washington's portrait on the obverse side remains constant.

Throughout its history, the Washington Quarter has become a popular collectible coin, with various editions and minting errors sought after by collectors. It remains an iconic symbol of American currency and a tribute to the country's first president, George Washington.

Key Dates

1932-D: The 1932-D Washington Quarter is considered a key date in the series. It was the first year of issue for the Washington Quarter and was minted in Denver. It has a lower mintage compared to other years, making it highly sought after by collectors.

1932-S: The 1932-S Washington Quarter is another key date in the series. It was minted in San Francisco and has a lower mintage similar to the 1932-D. Like the 1932-D, the 1932-S is highly valued by collectors.

1937-D: The 1937-D Washington Quarter is notable because it features an error known as the "Three-Legged Buffalo" variety. Due to an over-polishing of the die, the buffalo on the reverse side of the coin appears to have only three legs. This variety is highly sought after by collectors.

1950-D: The 1950-D Washington Quarter is considered a semi-key date. It has a relatively lower mintage compared to other years, making it more scarce and desirable among collectors.

1982-P and 1983-P: The 1982-P and 1983-P Washington Quarters are of interest to collectors because they were minted with different compositions. These two years were transitional periods when the composition changed from 90% silver to the copper-nickel clad composition used today. The 1982-P quarters were produced in both silver and clad versions, while the 1983-P quarters were only produced in the clad composition for circulation.

 

Jefferson Nickel - 1938

The Jefferson nickel is a five-cent coin that was first minted in 1938 by the United States Mint. It features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, on the obverse side and Monticello, Jefferson's famous Virginia estate, on the reverse side. Here's a brief history of the Jefferson nickel:

In the early 1930s, there was a push to replace the Buffalo nickel, which had been in circulation since 1913. Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross sought a new design to honor Thomas Jefferson, who played a significant role in the nation's early development. Felix Schlag, an immigrant from Germany, won a design competition for the new coin, and his artwork became the basis for the Jefferson nickel.

1938-2003: "Pre-War" Jefferson Nickel:

The Jefferson nickel was first introduced in 1938 and continued with the original design until 2003. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Thomas Jefferson with the inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST" above and "LIBERTY" below. The reverse depicts Monticello, Jefferson's plantation, with the inscription "MONTICELLO" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Latin for "Out of Many, One").

2004-Present: Westward Journey Series and Beyond:

In 2004, as part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series, the United States Mint released two new designs on the reverse side of the Jefferson nickel. The first design for that year depicted the Peace Medal given by Jefferson to Native American tribes. The second design portrayed the keelboat used by the Lewis and Clark expedition.

In 2005, two more designs were introduced as part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series. One design depicted the American bison, which symbolized the wildlife encountered by Lewis and Clark during their journey. The other design showcased an ocean view, representing the westward expansion and exploration.

Since 2006, the United States Mint has returned to using the original Monticello design on the reverse side, while the obverse design with Thomas Jefferson's portrait remains unchanged.

Special Editions and Collectible Varieties:

Throughout the years, the Jefferson nickel has seen various special editions, mint marks, and commemorative releases. These include proof coins, silver versions, uncirculated collector sets, and limited-edition designs.

In summary, the Jefferson nickel has been in circulation since 1938 and has featured Thomas Jefferson's portrait on the obverse side and Monticello on the reverse side. While the original design remained largely unchanged until 2003, the introduction of the Westward Journey Nickel Series brought new reverse designs from 2004 to 2005. Since 2006, the original Monticello design has been used again.

 Key Dates

1939-D: The 1939-D Jefferson nickel is considered a key date as it has a relatively low mintage of 3,514,000. It is sought after by collectors, especially in higher grades.

1942-P "War Nickel": During World War II, nickel was needed for the war effort, so the composition of the Jefferson nickel was changed from a 75% copper and 25% nickel alloy to a 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese composition. The "War Nickel" series includes the 1942-P, 1943-P, 1943-D, and 1943-S nickels. These coins contain silver and are often collected separately due to their metal content.

1950-D: The 1950-D Jefferson nickel is considered a semi-key date due to its lower mintage of 2,630,030. It can be more challenging to find in higher grades, making it desirable among collectors.

1950-D/S Overmintmark: Within the 1950-D Jefferson nickel series, there is a notable variety known as the 1950-D/S overmintmark. This occurs when the "D" mintmark is struck over an underlying "S" mintmark. It is a scarce variety and highly sought after by collectors.

1951-S: The 1951-S Jefferson nickel is another semi-key date with a mintage of 12,376,000. While not as rare as some of the earlier key dates, it is still relatively scarce and commands a premium in higher grades.

1954-S: The 1954-S Jefferson nickel is considered a key date due to its lower mintage of 13,167,000. It is particularly difficult to find in higher grades, making it highly sought after by collectors.

1964-D: The 1964-D Jefferson nickel is another key date, primarily because it was the last year silver was used in the composition of the coin. The mintage for this year is relatively low at 1,787,297, and its silver content adds to its desirability among collectors.

Draped Bust Half Dime 1796—1805

The Draped Bust Half Dime is a historic American coin that was minted from 1796 to 1805. It is known for its elegant design featuring the bust of Liberty on the obverse and a small eagle on the reverse.

The Draped Bust Half Dime was the second type of Half Dime issued by the United States Mint. The first type, known as the Flowing Hair Half Dime, was minted in 1794 and 1795. Due to its small size and low denomination, the Half Dime was often referred to as a "half dime."

The designer of the Draped Bust Half Dime was Robert Scot, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The obverse of the coin featured a bust of Liberty facing to the right, with flowing hair cascading down her neck. The word "LIBERTY" appeared above the bust, and the date of issue was below. The reverse featured a small eagle with outstretched wings, encircled by a wreath. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" appeared around the outer edge of the coin.

The Draped Bust Half Dime underwent several modifications during its production. The early issues from 1796 to 1797 had a small eagle on the reverse, while the later issues from 1800 to 1805 featured a heraldic eagle with a shield on its chest.

During its mintage, the Draped Bust Half Dime faced challenges. The coins were struck in small quantities and had limited circulation due to their small denomination. Additionally, the production process was not efficient, and the coins often suffered from weak strikes and inadequate planchet quality.

In 1805, the Draped Bust Half Dime was replaced by the Capped Bust design, which featured a different depiction of Liberty and a larger eagle on the reverse. The Capped Bust Half Dime remained in production until 1837 when it was replaced by the Seated Liberty design.

Today, the Draped Bust Half Dime is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance and scarcity. It represents an important era in early American coinage and serves as a reminder of the nation's numismatic heritage.

 Key Dates

1796: The Draped Bust Half Dime was first minted in 1796, and this inaugural year is highly coveted by collectors. It is considered one of the most important and scarce dates in the series. Only a limited number of these coins were produced, making them rare and valuable.

1797: The 1797 Draped Bust Half Dime is another significant date in the series. Like the 1796 issue, it has low mintage figures, making it quite rare. Varieties of this year include the 15 Stars and 16 Stars varieties, referring to the number of stars representing the states on the obverse of the coin.

1802: The 1802 Draped Bust Half Dime is a key date known for its scarcity. Very few of these coins were minted, and surviving examples are highly sought after by collectors. This date is particularly challenging to find in high grades, adding to its desirability.

1804: The 1804 Draped Bust Half Dime is another important key date. It has a low mintage and is considered a scarce issue. Examples in good condition are highly valued by collectors.

Flowing Hair Dollar 1794—1795

The Flowing Hair Dollar is a significant coin in the history of the United States. It was the first dollar coin issued by the newly established federal government in 1794 and 1795. Here's a brief overview of its history:

The Coinage Act of 1792 authorized the production of silver dollars in the United States. The act specified the weight, fineness, and design of the coins. It called for the depiction of an emblematic representation of Liberty on the obverse (front) and an eagle on the reverse (back).

The production of the Flowing Hair Dollar began in 1794 at the Philadelphia Mint, the only mint facility in operation at that time. The design featured a bust of Liberty facing to the right, with flowing hair cascading down her shoulder.

The design of the Flowing Hair Dollar is attributed to Robert Scot, the first chief engraver of the United States Mint. Scot was a talented and respected engraver who played a significant role in the early coinage of the United States.

The Flowing Hair Dollar had a limited mintage due to various factors. It is estimated that around 1,758 coins were produced in 1794, and approximately 160,295 coins were minted in 1795. These low mintages, combined with the age of the coins, contribute to their rarity and high value today.

Flowing Hair Dollar design was short-lived, as it was soon replaced by the Draped Bust Dollar design in 1795. The Draped Bust Dollar featured a different depiction of Liberty with her hair tied in a ribbon or cap.

Due to their low mintages and historical significance, Flowing Hair Dollars are highly sought after by collectors. These coins are rare and can command high prices at auctions and in the numismatic market. The condition of the coin, known as its "grade," also significantly affects its value.

It's important to note that the Flowing Hair Dollar is a numismatic item and not intended for general circulation. These coins were primarily produced for diplomatic gifts and bullion reserves, and they remain an important part of American numismatic history.

Key Dates

The Flowing Hair Dollar has a relatively short production span, with key dates referring to the specific years in which significant mintages occurred. Here are the key dates associated with the Flowing Hair Dollar:

1794: The year 1794 saw the first official minting of the Flowing Hair Dollar. It is considered the inaugural year for this coin series. Only a limited number of approximately 1,758 coins were produced, making it a highly sought-after and valuable date among collectors.

1795: The Flowing Hair Dollar continued to be minted in 1795, extending the series for another year. In this year, a greater number of coins were produced compared to 1794, with an approximate mintage of 160,295 pieces. The 1795 Flowing Hair Dollars are more readily available compared to the scarce 1794 issues but are still highly prized by collectors.

These two dates, 1794 and 1795, represent the key years in which the Flowing Hair Dollar was minted. They mark the entirety of the series as the design was replaced by the Draped Bust Dollar in 1795. The limited mintage numbers for both years contribute to the rarity and desirability of these coins today.