The value of a 1912 dime is influenced by its traditional Barber design and the coin’s condition. These dimes, minted by the US Mint from 1892 to 1916, are often found in heavily worn states today. This wear makes uncirculated dimes particularly desirable among collectors.
Despite their face value of ten cents, these coins can fetch significantly higher prices. For instance, the most expensive 1912 dime sold for over $20,000, highlighting their potential worth.
Table of Contents
- Value Chart for 1912 Dime
- Historical Significance of the 1912 Barber Dime
- 1912 Barber dime Types
- Design of the 1912 Barber Dime
- 1912 Barber Dime Grading Guide
- 1912 Barber Dime Value Guide
- Rare 1912 Barber Dime Errors List
- Where to Sell Your 1912 Barber Dime?
- What to look for in A 1912 Barber Dime?
- Which 1912 Barber dime is worth a lot of money?
- What is the priciest Barber dime?
- FAQs on 1912 Barber Dime Value
- Final Thoughts
Value Chart for 1912 Dime
| Condition | 1912 Dime | 1912 D Dime | 1912 S Dime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good | $8 | $8 | $8 |
| Very good | $10 | $10 | $11 |
| Fine | $13 | $13 | $15 |
| Very fine | $22 | $22 | $30 |
| Extra fine | $45 | $45 | $70 |
| AU | $75 | $75 | $100 |
| MS 60 | $210 | $210 | $265 |
| MS 63 | $275 | $275 | $450 |
| PR 63 | $600 | NA | NA |
Historical Significance of the 1912 Barber Dime
The 1912 Barber Dime has a rich history tied to several US Mint locations. The US Mint, established by the Coinage Act of 1792, has had multiple branches over the years, with four still active today:
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: The first American mint, established in 1792, remains the oldest and is still operational.
- Denver, Colorado: Opened on February 1, 1906, and continues to function.
- San Francisco, California: Began operations in 1854, primarily to serve the Gold Rush, and remains active.
- West Point, New York: Established in 1937, this facility now holds 22% of the nation’s gold reserves.
Additionally, the US Mint includes:
- Washington, DC: Headquarters responsible for research.
- Fort Knox, Kentucky: A bullion depository storing the US gold reserves.
Historically, other mint branches have existed but are now inactive, including:
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Carson City, Nevada
- Dahlonega, Georgia
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Manila, the Philippines
From January 2, 1892, to 1916, three of these mints produced Barber dimes. Named after the engraver Charles E. Barber, these coins replaced the unpopular Seated Liberty design.
Despite a public competition that received over 300 design submissions, only two were deemed acceptable. Ultimately, the Chief Engraver, Barber, was tasked with creating the new dime design.
His design, while not highly innovative, modified the existing Morgan dollar obverse. The new Liberty featured shorter hair, a cap, and the initial “B” on the neck truncation, while the reverse design remained similar to the Seated Liberty dimes.
1912 Barber dime Types
| Location | Year | Minted |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 1912 dime | 19,349.300 |
| Philadelphia | 1912 proof dime | 700 |
| Denver | 1912 D dime | 11,760,000 |
| San Francisco | 1912 S dime | 3,420,000 |
| Total | NA | 134,530,000 |
Design of the 1912 Barber Dime
The 1912 Barber Dime, designed by the renowned Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber, is a significant piece of American coinage history. Minted from 1892 to 1916, these dimes are part of the Barber coinage series, which also includes Barber quarters and half-dollars.
Obverse Design of 1912 Barber dimes
The obverse of the 1912 Barber Dime features the head of Lady Liberty facing right. She is adorned with a Phrygian cap, which is decorated with a laurel wreath and tied with a ribbon inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Barber drew inspiration for Liberty’s image from French coins and medals, which were modeled after ancient Greco-Roman sculptures. The rim of the coin bears the inscriptions:
- UNITED STATES
- OF AMERICA
- 1912
Additionally, the initial “B,” representing Barber’s name, is engraved on the truncation of Liberty’s neck on the left side.
Reverse Design of 1912 Barber dimes
The reverse side of the 1912 Barber Dime is adorned with a wreath composed of oak and maple leaves, wheat, and corn, all tied together with a ribbon bow at the bottom. The central area of the reverse is reserved for the denomination “ONE DIME.” Below the bow, you will find the mint mark, which can be an “S” for San Francisco, a “D” for Denver, or a blank space indicating the Philadelphia mint.
Technical Specifications of The 1912 Barber dime
| Face Value | $0.10 (ten cents) |
| Shape | Round |
| Compound | Silver coins with ten percent of copper |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Coin Diameter | 17.91 mm (0.705 inches) |
| Coin Weight | 0.08038 troy ounces (2.50 g) |
| Silver Weight | 0.07234 troy ounces (2.25 g) |
| Technique | Milled |
| Coin Thickness | 1.35 mm (0.053 inches) |
| Edge | Reeded |
1912 Barber Dime Grading Guide
The 1912 Barber Dime is a prized collectible among numismatists. Collectors often use the Sheldon grading scale to assess the condition of their coins. However, for those seeking to achieve high auction records, professional grading is highly recommended. Officially graded coins tend to fetch higher prices due to their verified condition.
If you believe your 1912 Barber Dime may not be extremely valuable, you can perform a preliminary check by examining Liberty’s cheek. This area is most susceptible to wear and tear. Any noticeable wear on the cheek indicates that the coin is not in mint condition.
For a more accurate assessment, refer to our detailed barber dime grading guide. Understanding the exact grade of your coin is crucial in determining its true value.
| Sheldon Scale | Grade |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State-1 |
| 2 | Fair |
| 3 | Very Fair |
| 4, 5, 6 | Good |
| 7, 8, 10 | Very Good |
| 12, 15 | Fine |
| 20, 30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60 | Mint State |
| 65 | Mint State |
| 70 | Mint State |
1912 Barber Dime Value Guide
In 1912, the US Mint produced 134,530,000 Barber dimes across three different mints. These coins can be identified by their mint marks or lack thereof, with some proofs struck in Philadelphia specifically for collectors.
1912 Barber Dime Value
The Philadelphia mint had the highest production of 1912 dimes, minting 19,349,300 coins. Despite their age, the large number of surviving pieces makes them accessible to most collectors. Circulated dimes typically range from $4 to $40, while those in About Uncirculated (AU) condition can cost between $55 and $75.
Uncirculated dimes are more valuable, with prices approximately as follows:
- MS 60: $210
- MS 61: $220
- MS 62: $230
- MS 63: $275
- MS 64: $330
- MS 65: $465
- MS 66: $875
The highest recorded price for a 1912 Barber dime in MS 67 grade was $8,050, achieved in 2005, despite the estimated value being between $1,450 and $2,250.
1912 Proof Barber Dime Value
In addition to regular dimes, the Philadelphia mint issued 700 proof dimes in 1912. These collector’s items typically range from $255 to $1,200, depending on their condition. Proof dimes in PR 67 grade can be particularly rare, valued between $1,550 and $5,750. A PR 67 cameo contrast dime sold for $12,925 in 2013, while a PR 68 dime set an auction record at $11,163 in 2014.
1912 D Barber Dime Value
The Denver mint produced 11,760,000 dimes in 1912, marked with a “D.” Circulated dimes from this mint range from $4 to $102. Uncirculated dimes start at $280 and can reach up to $1,475 for MS 66 pieces. The rarest MS 67 dimes are valued between $4,750 and $7,750, with one selling for $7,344 at an auction in 2016.
1912 S Barber Dime Value
The San Francisco mint had the lowest mintage in 1912, producing 3,420,000 dimes. These are the most expensive in the set, costing $5 to $90 in circulated condition. Uncirculated dimes in MS 60 grade are valued between $140 and $265, while higher grades can range from $160 to $1,920. The most valuable MS 67 dimes are estimated at $8,500 to $20,000, with one selling for $21,150 at an auction in 2014.
Rare 1912 Barber Dime Errors List
Numismatists appreciate the Barber dime series, but these coins often come with various imperfections. While major varieties like the 1905 O micro-O dimes and the 1893/2 P dimes are highly sought after, some errors minted in 1912 are also intriguing for collectors.
1912 Barber Dime Broad Strike Error
A broad strike error occurs when the collar holding the planchet breaks, resulting in thinner dimes with a broader diameter. These coins often lose their round shape and can appear deformed, resembling a wax seal. Depending on the condition and the extent of the error, these dimes can be valued between $10 and $50.
1912 Barber Dime Die Error
Die errors result from using a new, improperly set die, leading to imperfections such as doubling on the coin surface or missing and extra design details. These errors can make the coin unique and more valuable to collectors.
1912 Barber Dime Clipped Planchet Error
When the planchet used for minting is chipped or clipped, the resulting coins have a more or less noticeable cut on the rim. These errors can make the coins more attractive to collectors, often fetching higher prices than regular dimes.
Where to Sell Your 1912 Barber Dime?
Knowing the value of your 1912 Barber Dime is one thing, but finding the right place to sell it is another. Here are some recommended online platforms where you can sell your coins, along with their pros and cons:
- eBay: Widely used, large audience, but fees can be high.
- Heritage Auctions: Trusted auction house, but may require a commission.
- Coin Shows: Direct interaction with buyers, but may involve travel.
Also please refer to my dedicated guide on where to sell your coins online.
What to look for in A 1912 Barber Dime?
When evaluating a 1912 Barber Dime, there are several key factors to consider to determine its value and authenticity:
1. Condition
The overall condition of the coin is paramount. Look for signs of wear, particularly on Liberty’s cheek, as this area is most prone to damage. Coins in mint state (MS) condition are significantly more valuable than those that have been circulated.
2. Mint Marks
Check for mint marks on the reverse side of the coin, below the wreath. The presence of a “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) mint mark can affect the coin’s value. Coins without a mint mark were minted in Philadelphia.
3. Errors and Varieties
Errors such as broad strikes, die errors, and clipped planchets can make a coin more valuable. These imperfections are often sought after by collectors for their uniqueness.
4. Proof Coins
Proof coins, especially those in higher grades like PR 67 or PR 68, are rare and highly valued. These coins were specially struck for collectors and have a distinct, mirror-like finish.
5. Historical Significance
Understanding the historical context and production details of the 1912 Barber Dime can also add to its appeal. Coins from this era reflect a significant period in American numismatic history.
Which 1912 Barber dime is worth a lot of money?
Here are some of the 1912 Barber dimes that are worth a lot of money:
- 1912 S CAC Barber dime in MS 67: Auction record of $21,150 in 2014.
- 1912 CAM Barber dime in PR 67+: Auction record of $12,925 in 2013.
- 1912 Barber dime in PR 68: Auction record of $11,163 in 2014.
- 1912 Barber dime in MS 67: Auction record of $8,050 in 2005.
- 1912 D Barber dime in MS 67: Auction record of $7,344 in 2016.
What is the priciest Barber dime?
The most valuable Barber dime is a proof coin. An 1894 S PR 66 Barber dime sold for an astonishing $1,997,500 at a Heritage Auctions event in 2016. Among regularly struck coins, the highest prices were achieved by:
- 1893 Barber dime from San Francisco (MS 67): $63,250 in 2007.
- 1895 Barber dime from New Orleans (MS 67): $58,755.88 in 2017.
- 1895 Barber dime from Philadelphia (MS 67): $46,000 in 2005.
FAQs on 1912 Barber Dime Value
What makes a 1912 Barber dime rare?
While 1912 Barber dimes are not particularly rare, they are not overly common either. The highest-ranked pieces are especially scarce, as only a few have survived in pristine condition over the past 110 years.
How much are the 1912 Barber dimes from Philadelphia worth?
Philadelphia-minted 1912 Barber dimes, which lack a mint mark, can range from $4 to $102 in circulated condition. Uncirculated dimes are more valuable, ranging from $110 to $700, with MS 67 pieces valued between $1,450 and $1,850.
Final Thoughts
The 1912 Barber Dime is a fascinating piece of American coinage, rich in history and value. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a novice collector, understanding the various factors that influence the value of these dimes is crucial.
From mint marks and errors to overall condition and historical significance, each aspect plays a role in determining how much a 1912 Barber Dime is worth. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make informed decisions and potentially uncover a valuable addition to your collection.