The 1896 Barber quarters have value as both numismatic coins and as silver bullion. Keep reading to learn more about these coins.

1896 Quarter

Specifications

Type: Barber Quarter
Year: 1896
Face Value: $0.25
Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Silver Weight: .18084 oz.
Total Weight: 6.25 grams
Current Silver Bullion Value: $4.93

The US minted the 1896 quarter with no mint mark and also the 1896 O quarter and 1896 S quarter. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the reverse side of the coin below the eagle.

Series Location Quantity Minted
1896 Philadelphia 3,874,000
1896 O New Orleans 1,484,000
1896 S San Francisco 188,039

Value

This coin in circulated condition is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $4.93. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $27.26 per ounce.

The 1896 quarter with no mint mark is worth around $13 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $45. In extremely fine condition the value is around $80. In uncirculated condition the price is around $250 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $350.

The 1896 O quarter is worth around $70 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $330. In extremely fine condition the value is around $675. In uncirculated condition the price is around $1,200 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $2,000.

The 1896 S quarter is the most rare and valuable series. This coin is worth around $700 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $3,750. In extremely fine condition the value is around $5,500. In uncirculated condition the price is around $15,000 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $21,000.

Proof coins with no mint mark are available and they are each valued at around $750 in PR 63 condition. There were only 762 proof coins minted.

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Grading System

Good- The date and the inscriptions are readable. The word "LIBERTY" inscribed on Liberty's headband has been completely worn off.

Very fine- The word "LIBERTY" inscribed on Liberty's headband is visible but plain.

Extremely fine- The word "LIBERTY" inscribed on Liberty's headband is sharp. The edges on Liberty's headband are distinct.

MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.

MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.

PR 63 proof- This coin has reflective surfaces and only a few blemishes away from the major focal points. There are no major flaws.

 

Sources:

The Red Book


See also:

1897 Quarter
1895 Quarter
1894 Quarter