1904 Barber Half Dollar

Barber half dollars from 1904 offer something for every coin collector – common pieces for those who are on a budget, a scarce issue for those who want a challenge, and proof coinage for individuals who have a taste for the finer things in numismatics. What’s your choice? No matter the type of coin collector that you are, you’re definitely sure to find something to your liking among the four main issues of 1904 Barber half dollars.

Below is a rundown of the various 1904 halves, their mintages, and their approximate values:

• 1904 – 2,992,000; $18

• 1904-O – 1,117,600; $28

• 1904-S – 553,038; $55

• 1904 proof – 670; $900

*Values are for coins in a grade of Good-4, unless otherwise noted.

Among business strikes, the 1904-S stands out as the scarcest issue, and collectors definitely vie for that key piece, as relatively few are available as compared to the demand for the coin. In general, Barber half dollars above a grade of Very Good or so are rather elusive, given the fact that these half dollars saw extremely heavy use during their heyday, and few were actually held aside.

For this reason, most Barber half dollars are pretty well worn, and many show signs of damage. If you find a choice original Barber half dollar in a grade of Fine or better, you’ve found a true prize.