1897‑S Barber Half Dollar – San Francisco Mint Silver

This 1897‑S Barber Half Dollar is a prime example of 19th-century U.S. coinage, struck at the San Francisco Mint. Featuring Liberty wearing a laurel wreath on the obverse and a detailed heraldic eagle on the reverse, this piece reflects classic American engraving style. Its low mintage and silver composition make it highly desirable among collectors.

📌 Key Features

• Minted in San Francisco: Identified by the "S" mintmark below the eagle on the reverse
• Low Mintage Issue: Only 933,900 coins were produced, increasing its scarcity
• Classic Design by Charles E. Barber: Includes Liberty’s bust and a regal eagle clutching arrows and olive branches
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper; a true historical silver coin
• Large Silver Size: Approximately 30.6 mm in diameter, 12.5 grams in weight

🔍 Why You Should Buy

• Key-Date Appeal: Scarcer than many other dates in the series, especially in higher grades
• Silver Content: A substantial .900 fine silver coin with collectible and bullion value
• Historical Significance: Represents the craftsmanship and economy of late 19th-century America
• Collector Value: Strong demand among Barber series collectors and silver coin investors

📏 Technical Specifications

• Year: 1897
• Mint: San Francisco (S mintmark)
• Denomination: Half Dollar
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Weight: 12.5 grams
• Diameter: Approx. 30.6 mm
• Edge: Reeded
• Designer: Charles E. Barber

❓ FAQs

Is this coin rare?
Yes, it has one of the lower mintages among Barber half dollars, making it less commonly seen in circulation and collections.

What does the “S” mintmark mean?
The “S” indicates it was minted in San Francisco, distinguishing it from Philadelphia and New Orleans issues.

Is this coin made of real silver?
Yes, it is composed of 90% silver, giving it both intrinsic and collectible value.

Should it be graded?
Grading is recommended, especially if the coin has strong detail and minimal wear. It increases value and buyer confidence.

🎯 Ideal For

• Collectors of classic U.S. silver coins
• Investors in pre-1965 silver
• Numismatists completing the Barber Half Dollar series
• History buffs and vintage coin lovers