Rarity usually determines the value of a collector’s item, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes the story behind the item sets its price. Such is the case with the 1894-S Barber Dime. Recently sold for $1.9 million, this Barber Dime is the most expensive dime in US history.
Barber, or Liberty Head, coinage was produced around the beginning of the 20th century and can be identified by the, well, Liberty head. The condition of the coin can be quickly assessed by the state of the word liberty written on her headband, as it tends to be the first bit to wear.
A Barber Dime
This particular Barber Dime is famous for the mystery surrounding its origin. Thought at first to be minted to make up a balance at the San Francisco Mint, the currently accepted story is that 24 of these coins were minted to be given to banker friends of the mint’s superintendent, John Daggett. Each of the seven bankers received three of the dimes while the last three were given to his daughter who, reportedly, spent one of them on ice cream. Collectors account for only nine of the expensive dimes.
The most expensive dime was sold by Oakland businessman Daniel Rosenthal to an anonymous buyer who does not, in fact, plan to spend the dime on ice cream. It was transported by a Virginia Beach coin dealer who didn’t eat, sleep or drink until the coin was in the hands of the buyer.
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I have this same coin but its not dated 1902 . i have one from 1911 , 1912 , 1913, 1908 ,1916… are they worth any money someone help!
Yes, I can guarantee that each of your dimes is worth at least ten cents.
I have this same coin but its not dated 1902 …..its 1915 so how much i should sell it for?????
I have a Barber dime dated 1902 and 1903. What are they worth?
I Have a 1902 Barber dime, and was wondering what the worth is?
I may be even willing to sell it for the right price.
I have collected quite some of coins, ROMAN, MUGHAL COINS found in India and the Middle east countries. I have to get assessed by a valuer, I had taken to London and in Christy’s. But I did not part with them.
It is very difficult and if there is any association OR so, Please let me know. I was under the impression that 1952 Lincoln penny was most expensive.
i actually have 3 1902 (s) dime.