Barber half type coin--any recommendations?

Hey there, Barber enthusiasts--I want to get a very nice Barber half type coin. I have always avoided the series, and know almost nothing about it, even though I have collected Silver for years. What I am looking for is a clean, nice looking type coin half in XF 45-Au 53 condition, preferably NGC (but would of course take PCGS). Any recommendations on date and mint? I am looking to spend $300-350 tops. Thanks.

 

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One of the nice things about Barber half dollars is how much flexibility a type coin will give you. These were produced in two centuries (nineteenth and twentieth) as well as at four mints (P, D, S and O) and with two methods of manufacture (business strike and proof). There are myriad key or semi-key dates that pepper the series and what date or mints are most difficult can depend upon the target grade.

Given your desire for an EF45-AU53 coin I would suggest you stay away from the O-mint pieces as these are typically more mushy in terms of details and you may find that they are not as aesthetically pleasing. The late date 1915-D and early date 1892 were saved in high numbers with little wear and either would make an excellent type coin. In general, the O-and S-mint coins will be much tougher and more expensive while the P-and D-mint coins will be the ones you find. Also, quite a few of these are certified after a dipping or light cleaning and I would strongly advise you to pass on those coins.

Good luck and please feel free to ask other questions as I love talking about type and Barber half dollars are especially close to my heart.

 

Thanks a lot. You have been most informative and helpful, as I really like the series, but have almost no familiarity with it. As you know, I prefer toned coins, so an original non-dipped one is fine with me--I am happy to pass on a dipped and lusterless coin.

 

Good points, also, if that is your budget, expect a nice XF-40 or 45.

 

My budget is variable. I could go much higher for the right coin. I won't go under XF 45.

 

With your budget I would look for a nice Philadelphia mint piece, something like an 1895 or 1897.

 

I would suggest 1913, 1914 or 1915 P as lower mintage, often overlooked semi-key sleepers. May not be what you want for your type set though. TC

 

Got this one. The color might not appeal to everybody, but I love toned coins. Market acceptability works for me, although it might not for others, but it fits my needs. It was attractive by my standard, and very well priced:

 

Great coin!

Market acceptability? it's an old ANACS holder so I would buy it

 

A very nice piece, mintage 2.598M A strong late date. I like the Russert against the blue as far as the toning goes.