I'm glad you appreciate my 04-O, it's one of my favorites. I agree that the 04-O is over-rated as a date, but finding a really nice one is a challenge.
There has been plenty of discussion over rarity and over/under rated dates in the quarter series. I have used tge BCCS rarity census from 2008 as a guide, and tweaked it to reflect my own experience, and my interpretation of other collector's experience locating original/problem free examples in the Barber Half Dollar series. This theory/observation is not limited to PCGS graded coins. To do so would change the perspective from overall series rarity and thus detract from the original point of the exercise.
Below I am listing my own personal findings after 5 years' involvement pursuing these coins, primarily in AU grades. I will expound further below to reflect coins I consider to be over rated, vastly over rated, under rated, vastly under rated, and properly categorized.
Again this report uses the 2008 BCCS rarity report as a basis. I then adjust for my own experience with each issue:
R4 (scarce to very scarce date): 1893-S, 1895-S, 1898-S, 1899-O, 1899-S, 1900-O, 1902-O, 1902-S, 1903-S (borderline R5), 1904-O, 1904-S, 1906-S, 1908-S, 1909-O, 1909-S, 1911-S, 1913-S (borderline R5; too controversial for that lofty designation. More on that later), 1914, 1915
Comments on above: several issues you will note are 1 level above or below the BCCS report, some may be 2 levels removed. This is based on my own findings in conjunction with communication and opinions from many Barber collectors and dealers specializing in the series. Many are borderline. Many are one level in terms of absolute availability and another level truly problem free (the 98-S and 01-O come to mind) - example some coins may be R4 but R5 problem free. Some coins I have never seen in AU in 5 years but I defer to my previous theory of "small sample size.". Yes, 5 years is a small sample size. I have tried to not let isolated groups of coins come to market skew my findings (ie I've not seen a 1915-P AU come to marker in 5 yrs yet still list it as R4 based on historical data, other collector/dealer opinions, pop and census reports. Small sample size applies.
Vastly under rated: 1898-O (I almost listed this as R6 as this coin is so damn hard to find in AU, let alone choice & prob free AU), 1898-S (I've seen exactly one original AU coin, my present 55, and just a couple problem AUs in 5 years. Not often discussed or even in the avg collectors top ten tough dates. It remains vastly under rated even within collector circles), 1902-O (one of the softest struck and fewest survivors in choice AU and seldom talked about), 1903-S (one of the few remaining sleepers. Very low pops, hardly ever seen above AU50), 1906-S (see description for 1903-S), 1909-S (you almost never see it. You hear about it even less), 1911-S (next to impossible in 55/58 and extremely scarce in 50/53. All single digit pops in all 4 AU grades at PCGS with most being 5 or fewer. Who knew that? Who cared? See... Under rated), 1913-S (perhaps the most under appreciated dates of the series)
Under rated: 1894, 1895, 1895-S, 1896, 1896-O (for all it's hype, I still find this issue not truly appreciated for how scarce it is in AU, particularly choice AU and vastly under rated in prob free choice AU), 1896-S (like Rodney Dangerfield, this date don't get no respect), 1899-O (never seen and never mentioned), 1899-S, 1904-O (oft discussed - still remains one of the tougher AU coins in the series despite two AU58 examples coming to auction this month), 1905 (one of the toughest P mints in the series and still not often recognized), 1907-S (while always part if the conversation the true scarcity if this coin in AU is IMO not understood), 1908-S (still remains under appreciated), 1912-S (flies under the radar. Tough date), 1913-D (hidden in the shadows of the other tough dates),
About right: 1892, 1892-O (micro), 1893, 1893-S, 1894-O, 1894-S, 1895-O, 1897, 1897-O (recognized and identified for the rarity this coin deserves), 1897-S, 1898, 1899, 1900, 1900-O, 1901, 1901-O, 1901-S, 1902, 1903-O, 1904, 1905-O (observed and appreciated for its true difficulty), 1906, 1906-D, 1907, 1907-D, 1908, 1908-D, 1908-O, 1909, 1909-O, 1911, 1912, 1912-D, 1913 (user to be over rated; not so much any more), 1914, 1914-S, 1915, 1915-D, 1915-S
Over rated: 1892-O, 1892-S, 1893-O, 1900-S, 1902-S (scarce no doubt but it has been available a handful of times over the years. When found its usually attractive and well struck. Over rated slightly but still ferocious), 1903 (this is a tough issue but some dealers over rate it as reflected in the artificial run up on prices. I've seen this date in AU no less than half dozen times over the 5 years), 1905-S (more "common" than many believe), 1906-O, 1907-O (always seems to be one for sale somewhere!), 1910-S, 1913,
Vastly over rated: 1910-P (IMO the number one most over rated coin in the series. R2 at best IMO - I have sen no less than 15 for sale in 5 years- all different and usually AU55), 1911-D (a better date but no better. Too much respect for this coin),
Please feel free to disagree, comment, inquire, or tell me why Ive lost my mind. A lot of this is theory/opinion/first hand experience. I tried to blend it all and cone up with a non-biased assessment based on the compiled data and experiences of all collectors I know, not just first hand account
Edited to clarify this essay is with regards to half dollars . Edited for spelling and to add the disclaimer of not being a PCGS population report observation, but rather an observation and OPINION of overall condition rarity within the series including those seen raw or holdered.
<< <i>There has been plenty of discussion over rarity and over/under rated dates in the quarter series. I have used tge BCCS rarity census from 2008 as a guide, and tweaked it to reflect my own experience, and my interpretation of other collector's experience locating original/problem free examples. Below I am listing my own personal findings after 5 years' involvement pursuing these coins, primarily in AU grades. I will expound further below to reflect coins I consider to be over rated, vastly over rated, under rated, vastly under rated, and properly categorized.
Again this report uses the 2008 BCCS rarity report as a basis. I then adjust for my own experience with each issue:
R4 (scarce to very scarce date): 1893-S, 1895-S, 1898-S, 1899-O, 1899-S, 1900-O, 1902-O, 1902-S, 1903-S (borderline R5), 1904-O, 1904-S, 1906-S, 1908-S, 1909-O, 1909-S, 1911-S, 1913-S (borderline R5; too controversial for that lofty designation. More on that later), 1914, 1915
Comments on above: several issues you will note are 1 level above or below the BCCS report, some may be 2 levels removed. This is based on my own findings in conjunction with communication and opinions from dozens of Barber collectors and dealers specializing in the series. Many are borderline. Many are one level in terms of absolute availability and another level truly problem free (the 98-S and 01-O come to mind) - example some coins may be R4 but R5 problem free. Some coins I have never seen in AU in 5 years but I defer to my previous theory of "small sample size. Yes, 5 years is a small sample size. I have tried to not let isolated groups of coins come to market skew my findings (ie I've not seen a 1915-P AU come to marker in 5 yrs yet still list it as R4 based on historical data, other collector/dealer opinions, pop and census reports. Small sample size applies.,
Vastly under rated: 1898-O (I almost listed this as R6 as this coin is so damn hard to find in AU, let alone choice & prob free AU), 1898-S (I've seen exactly one original AU coin, my present 55, and just a couple problem AUs in 5 years. Not often discussed or even in the avg collectors top ten tough dates. It remains vastly under rated even within collector circles), 1902-O (one of the softest struck and fewest survivors in choice AU and seldom talked about), 1903-S (one of the few remaining sleepers. Very low pops, hardly ever seen above AU50), 1906-S (see description for 1903-S), 1909-S (you almost never see it. You hear about it even less), 1911-S (next to impossible in 55/58 and extremely scarce in 50/53. All single digit pops in all 4 AU grades at PCGS with most being 5 or fewer. Who knew that? Who cared? See... Under rated), 1913-S (perhaps the most under appreciated dates of the series)
Under rated: 1894, 1895, 1895-S, 1896, 1896-O (for all it's hype, I still find this issue not truly appreciated for how scarce it is in AU, particularly choice AU and vastly under rated in prob free choice AU), 1896-S (like Rodney Dangerfield, this date don't get no respect), 1899-O (never seen and never mentioned), 1899-S, 1904-O (oft discussed - still remains one of the tougher AU coins in the series despite two AU58 examples coming to auction this month), 1905 (one of the toughest P mints in the series and still not often recognized), 1907-S (while always part if the conversation the true scarcity if this coin in AU is IMO not understood), 1908-S (still remains under appreciated), 1912-S (flies under the radar. Tough date), 1913-D (hidden in the shadows of the other tough dates),
About right: 1892, 1892-O (micro), 1893, 1893-S, 1894-O, 1894-S, 1895-O, 1897, 1897-O (recognized and identified for the rarity this coin deserves), 1897-S, 1898, 1899, 1900, 1900-O, 1901, 1901-O, 1901-S, 1902, 1903-O, 1904, 1905-O (observed and appreciated for its true difficulty), 1906, 1906-D, 1907, 1907-D, 1908, 1908-D, 1908-O, 1909, 1909-O, 1911, 1912, 1912-D, 1913 (user to be over rated; not so much any more), 1914, 1914-S, 1915, 1915-D, 1915-S
Over rated: 1892-O, 1892-S, 1893-O, 1900-S, 1902-S (scarce no doubt but it has been available a handful of times over the years. When found its usually attractive and well struck. Over rated slightly but still ferocious), 1903 (this is a tough issue but some dealers over rate it as reflected in the artificial run up on prices. I've seen this date in AU no less than half dozen times over the 5 years), 1905-S (more "common" than many believe), 1906-O, 1907-O (always seems to be one for sale somewhere!), 1910-S, 1913,
Vastly over rated: 1910-P (IMO the number one most over rated coin in the series. R2 at best IMO - I have sen no less than 15 for sale in 5 years- all different and usually AU55), 1911-D (a better date but no better. Too much respect for this coin),
Please feel free to disagree, comment, inquire, or tell me why ice lost my mind. A lot of this is theory/opinion/first hand experience. I tried to blend it all and cone up with a non-biased assessment based on the compiled data and experiences of all collectors I know, not just first hand account >>
1st you need to clarify you are talking about 1/2's!
This post reminds me of the GS monthly summary on quarters...not very accurate IMO.
92's bring the money they do due to type collectors.
I don't have the time or desire to disect your info...but I see what I consider inaccurate info.
If the 02-S is so overrated how did my balistic bid beat you by only 1$? Man was I lucky!
Where are all the 10's you speak of?
I know of 2 05-O's in 58 of the supposedly 14 graded...where are the other 12? I really want to know! Perhaps other memebers here know???
I didn't like and thought the 98-S and 99-S you bought fromm KK were overpriced...maybe I will regret it as I had the chance to buy them before they hit the BST!
I could go further but don't have the time or desire.
Heres my pics of the 1915-D Half I bought a few weeks ago. it actually took the seller 11days to ship to me. I thought this coin may be an Au50-53 but my novice evaluation maybe isnt right. I had a very reliable friend say it may go XF-45
1st you need to clarify you are talking about 1/2's!
Agree, it took me to the Micro O to figure out it was about half dollars.
This post reminds me of the GS monthly summary on quarters...not very accurate IMO.
Not very accurate or you just disagree with their opinion?
92's bring the money they do due to type collectors.
This makes a lot of sense.
I don't have the time or desire to dissect your info...but I see what I consider inaccurate info.
Again, inaccurate or you just have a differing opinion? Two different animals. It would help if you offered your take on the series.
If the 02-S is so overrated how did my balistic bid beat you by only 1$? Man was I lucky!
I guess you were.
Where are all the 10's you speak of?
Since the auctions are over, probably in collections.
I know of 2 05-O's in 58 of the supposedly 14 graded...where are the other 12? I really want to know! Perhaps other memebers here know???
With 330 million people in America alone, they could be anywhere. There are a lot more collectors out there than just us forum weenies.
I didn't like and thought the 98-S and 99-S you bought fromm KK were overpriced...maybe I will regret it as I had the chance to buy them before they hit the BST!
Yes, you may certainly regret it someday, and you may not. Congrats on getting the first look.
I could go further but don't have the time or desire.
I wish you would, because I would like to hear your thoughts. You definitely are in the mix of things and have a lot of experience as well.
Very interested in others opinions!
So am I. I have little experience with AU coins. I watch some of the key date auctions from time to time but that's about it. I personally would like to hear Mike's take and Walt as well.
Thanks for taking the time to post this, Scott. It's an enjoyable read IMO. >>
Thanks Justin. Just messing around... Simple minded collector throwing good after bad. Not very articulate but hopefully you can decipher from context. I've been overpaying for coins since I entered the hobby. That's nothing new .. I used to find an odd VF on good shape when I was buying 90% bags. Back then I was paying anywhere from $6 to $13 per half dollar ... my old 1906 PCGS XF 40 and a lightly cleaned 1912-S AU came from 90% bags.
As XTC once said, and what a great song too .. I'm the Mayor of Simpleton.
I kind of liked the GS monthly summary on quarters. Thought the author was clever, knowledgable, and quite articulate. Of course, it was an op-ed so there is no right and wrong, just personal experience.
Thanks for your thoughtful barber half ratings. I always enjoy reading other's opinions as to rarity and over/under rated coins. I don't collect barber halves, but I'll share your post with my friend Jim and get his thoughts. Thanks again and keep up the good work!
<< <i>I kind of liked the GS monthly summary on quarters. Thought the author was clever, knowledgable, and quite articulate. Of course, it was an op-ed so there is no right and wrong, just personal experience.
Paesan >>
Lenny,
Your GS monthly summary on barber quarters was outstanding! Please continue your thoughtful contributions.
Lenny-Thanks for everything Everyone else- what is GS monthly? Greysheet? Sry bout the novice questions. I am having a tough time deciding on which coins to go after 1st in the set im attempting. I guess im pretty lucky that I have a very knowledgeable Mentor in this matter because I think I would pull my hair out Lol.
Doug, I'm glad you enjoyed the article. Thank you.
Mark, Grey sheet, GS, CDN, Coin Dealer Newsletter (I believe) all the same. Since you don't know, I'll tell the story briefly. I wrote the article in the above reference after GS approached me. I was not something I wrote and then tried to get published. I was a story about my collection, nothing more. My first draft was just that, a story. Then they asked me to edit it and include a date by date breakdown, similar to what Scott has done for the halves.
Now there are a lot of guys here that know a heck of a lot more than I do about collecting Barber quarters. I've never claimed to be an expert or to know more than anyone else about coins. Manners, yes, but not coins. While I enjoyed writing the article and have had 99% positive feedback, I stress again that it was just an opinion, open for debate, and there is no right or wrong.
If you'd like a copy of the article, or anyone else out there for that matter, send me a PM.
Scott - Thanks for taking the time to do the half analysis. It's information all of us can benefit from.
Amwld - ????? lighten up.
Mark - Your 15-D looks every bit of 45, maybe 50, but the obverse spot isn't helping it any. GS is greysheet, and keep asking questions, we all are learning new things about our hobby every day.
Paesan - I like your take on over/under rated dates. Clever.
Pics for this AM, one of my favorite barber halves, bought raw in the 90's, now PC53, but IMO a very over-rated and over-priced date in G-VG:
Vern l It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
Good win for the Dolphins today. Pretty much outplayed by the Falcons but made some big plays in crunch time for a come from behind victory. Definitely showing maturity. Type of game they would lose in last few years.
Thanks, Doug. I was fortunate to get this one, and if same coin was in 55 or 58 holder, I probably wouldn't have. I think a lot of registry collectors will skip a 53 like this because its not a numerical upgrade. Wish I had a matching 01-O!!!
Great post on the Barber Half scarcity analysis, SAM. I can see you put a lot of thought and effort into it.
The only significant difference of opinion that I would mention are the 98S and 99S halves as R4's. Being "Philippine Hoard" coins, even dabblers in the series such as myself comes across these - yes many of these have been cleaned, but at least some nice ones seem to be around - much more so than the 93S that you have in the same category. But again, that's just my opinion and observation.
Very nice 95-O. I got my crossover. I don't collect dimes, but this complete My 1899 mint set.
Order #20732063 / Submission #8376618 Line # Item # Cert # PCGS No. CoinDate Denomination Variety Country Grade 1 1 28175838 4820 1899-S 10C USA AU55 was ANACS AU58 2 1 28175839 5672 1915-S 25C USA AU58 was NGC AU58 Here is the dime. POP 4! My pictures still are not great, but getting a tad better. ?.
You and I talked about it before, but damn your friends dime is exceptional. You might consider going to an even higher figure to try and get him to part with it.
Kevin - Congrats on the crosses. Pics are getting better.
Rob - PM sent.
Jim - He likes the 95-O as much as I do, and strong offers of coins and/or money haven't had an effect. If it ever does go, I'm sure I'll have first shot.
Pics for today, my more pedestrian 95-O, was ICG-25 now PC30:
Vern l It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
sometimes money just isn't enough to get somebody to part with a coin they like, I am not wealthy by far, but I have a customer who keeps trying to buy my 1873-cc Seated $ , he keeps upping the $ each time he see's me, but I just hate to sell it, not because I couldn't use the money for something else, I just would not be able to find a replacement (at least one I could swing).
I personally love the 1895-O date within the entire Barber series. The PC65 dime is one of the finest Barber dimes that I have seen. The PC30 is no slouch either. I was fortunate to just pick up this PC64+ and can't wait to get it in hand for a better look.
that is a gorgeous coin Craig .. Bet it looks even nicer in hand (if that is possible)
I had posted a week or so ago about the elusiveness of finding a 1904-O Quarter nice in XF or AU or MS ... Craig and Vern posted splendid eye appealing examples. I have gone through 3 AU and 2 XF 1904-O Quarters and was fortunately able to get out those pretty much even.
I waited a month of Sundays but finally a very nice, eye-appealing and original coin has come my way. Although a weakish strike and a coin that is over graded IMO (it resides in a PCGS AU55 holder - I say AU50/53 tops), the coin is very original and very appealing.
There is luster (as usual, not well seen in my photos), the fields and cheek are very clean, and the color is perfect. There are no hair lines or other distractions to speak of - the overall eye appeal is excellent. I will sacrifice strike for originality and eye appeal 8 days a week.
Lots of nice 95-Os posted! Wouldn't mind having one of each, including the dollar.
Scott, Congrats on finally finding an 04-O that you like. I like it too. I grade 53, would give it a 55 save a few dark spots, but looks very original for sure.
Still very curious about the 01-S sweepstakes! I guess we will know soon enough.
Some beautiful coins posted on this page to be sure.
-Barberkeys, I have grown accustomed to looking forward to your quarter pics each morning, the 95 O dime sure was a sweet change of pace...
-Labelman, that 95 O quarter looks tremendous!
-Scott, very nice 04 O. Excellent pickup.
Great night of entertainment tonight with a couple of interesting football games on TV and three nice 01 S quarters ending on Heritage. Sure wish I had a spare 50 K laying around!!
Always looking for tougher PSA 10's of Nolan Arenado, Alex Bregman, Mookie Betts, Francisco Lindor, and Mike Trout.
Vern - I don't really follow the dime series. Frankly I wasn't aware how rare that coin was until the discussion that ensued. Is that 65 a top pop? What a beauty
Congrats Mark - that's a tough coin to find. Are you paying him I'm all pennies ?. I paid 700% over PCGS guide for my 7-S/58. I shouldn't be advertising my irrational stupidity but I am. Apparently the guide doesn't ALWAYS take the latest auction results as gospel
Lenny - looked closely under a loup - the spot at 2:00 is almost certainly caked on dirt . The smaller one slightly higher could be toning or could be corrosion, hard to tell.
Sam- I feel very fortunateto have a Mentor thats willing to assist me in my quest for an AU set of quarters and yes im mailing him a few thousand Pennies Lol!! I think it would be extremely expensive to mail it tho.
Cheesman- Very sweet dime although im not familiar with the Barber Dimes I thought about trying to assemble a circulated set.
No Barber images today, but a big thank you to three regular posters to this forum. From offering coins that aren't being actively marketed, to "on the ground" previews and detailed evaluations, you guys are the best.
Comments
_____________________
Craig
Paesan
Scott - Agree that uncleaned 04-O qtrs in 55-58 are tough.
Craig - Good looking 04-O.
Pics for tonight, 04-O from the Iowa collection, PC58:
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
I'm glad you appreciate my 04-O, it's one of my favorites. I agree that the 04-O is over-rated as a date, but finding a really nice one is a challenge.
Doug
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
Doug
Beautiful coin...
Below I am listing my own personal findings after 5 years' involvement pursuing these coins, primarily in AU grades. I will expound further below to reflect coins I consider to be over rated, vastly over rated, under rated, vastly under rated, and properly categorized.
Again this report uses the 2008 BCCS rarity report as a basis. I then adjust for my own experience with each issue:
R1 (common):
1892, 1897, 1898, 1899, 1902, 1904, 1906, 1906-D, 1907, 1907-D, 1908-D, 1908-O, 1909, 1911, 1912, 1912-D, 1915-D, 1915-S
R2 (slightly better date):
1892-O, 1893, 1894-S, 1895, 1900, 1900-S, 1901, 1905-S, 1907-O, 1908, 1910, 1910-S
R3 (better to scarce date):
1892-S, 1893-O, 1894, 1894-O, 1895-O, 1896, 1903, 1903-O, 1905, 1906-O, 1911-D, 1912-S, 1913, 1913-D, 1914-S,
R4 (scarce to very scarce date):
1893-S, 1895-S, 1898-S, 1899-O, 1899-S, 1900-O, 1902-O, 1902-S, 1903-S (borderline R5), 1904-O, 1904-S, 1906-S, 1908-S, 1909-O, 1909-S, 1911-S, 1913-S (borderline R5; too controversial for that lofty designation. More on that later), 1914, 1915
R5 (semi-key/ very scarce date):
1896-S, 1897-S, 1901-S, 1905-O (borderline R4), 1907-S,
R6 (Rare):
1896-O, 1897-O, 1898-O, 1901-O,
R7 (Extremely Rare):
1892-O (micro)
Comments on above: several issues you will note are 1 level above or below the BCCS report, some may be 2 levels removed. This is based on my own findings in conjunction with communication and opinions from many Barber collectors and dealers specializing in the series. Many are borderline. Many are one level in terms of absolute availability and another level truly problem free (the 98-S and 01-O come to mind) - example some coins may be R4 but R5 problem free.
Some coins I have never seen in AU in 5 years but I defer to my previous theory of "small sample size.". Yes, 5 years is a small sample size. I have tried to not let isolated groups of coins come to market skew my findings (ie I've not seen a 1915-P AU come to marker in 5 yrs yet still list it as R4 based on historical data, other collector/dealer opinions, pop and census reports. Small sample size applies.
Vastly under rated: 1898-O (I almost listed this as R6 as this coin is so damn hard to find in AU, let alone choice & prob free AU), 1898-S (I've seen exactly one original AU coin, my present 55, and just a couple problem AUs in 5 years. Not often discussed or even in the avg collectors top ten tough dates. It remains vastly under rated even within collector circles), 1902-O (one of the softest struck and fewest survivors in choice AU and seldom talked about), 1903-S (one of the few remaining sleepers. Very low pops, hardly ever seen above AU50), 1906-S (see description for 1903-S), 1909-S (you almost never see it. You hear about it even less), 1911-S (next to impossible in 55/58 and extremely scarce in 50/53. All single digit pops in all 4 AU grades at PCGS with most being 5 or fewer. Who knew that? Who cared? See... Under rated), 1913-S (perhaps the most under appreciated dates of the series)
Under rated: 1894, 1895, 1895-S, 1896, 1896-O (for all it's hype, I still find this issue not truly appreciated for how scarce it is in AU, particularly choice AU and vastly under rated in prob free choice AU), 1896-S (like Rodney Dangerfield, this date don't get no respect), 1899-O (never seen and never mentioned), 1899-S, 1904-O (oft discussed - still remains one of the tougher AU coins in the series despite two AU58 examples coming to auction this month), 1905 (one of the toughest P mints in the series and still not often recognized), 1907-S (while always part if the conversation the true scarcity if this coin in AU is IMO not understood), 1908-S (still remains under appreciated), 1912-S (flies under the radar. Tough date), 1913-D (hidden in the shadows of the other tough dates),
About right: 1892, 1892-O (micro), 1893, 1893-S, 1894-O, 1894-S, 1895-O, 1897, 1897-O (recognized and identified for the rarity this coin deserves), 1897-S, 1898, 1899, 1900, 1900-O, 1901, 1901-O, 1901-S, 1902, 1903-O, 1904, 1905-O (observed and appreciated for its true difficulty), 1906, 1906-D, 1907, 1907-D, 1908, 1908-D, 1908-O, 1909, 1909-O, 1911, 1912, 1912-D, 1913 (user to be over rated; not so much any more), 1914, 1914-S, 1915, 1915-D, 1915-S
Over rated: 1892-O, 1892-S, 1893-O, 1900-S, 1902-S (scarce no doubt but it has been available a handful of times over the years. When found its usually attractive and well struck. Over rated slightly but still ferocious), 1903 (this is a tough issue but some dealers over rate it as reflected in the artificial run up on prices. I've seen this date in AU no less than half dozen times over the 5 years), 1905-S (more "common" than many believe), 1906-O, 1907-O (always seems to be one for sale somewhere!), 1910-S, 1913,
Vastly over rated: 1910-P (IMO the number one most over rated coin in the series. R2 at best IMO - I have sen no less than 15 for sale in 5 years- all different and usually AU55), 1911-D (a better date but no better. Too much respect for this coin),
Please feel free to disagree, comment, inquire, or tell me why Ive lost my mind.
A lot of this is theory/opinion/first hand experience. I tried to blend it all and cone up with a non-biased assessment based on the compiled data and experiences of all collectors I know, not just first hand account
Edited to clarify this essay is with regards to half dollars . Edited for spelling and to add the disclaimer of not being a PCGS population report observation, but rather an observation and OPINION of overall condition rarity within the series including those seen raw or holdered.
<< <i>There has been plenty of discussion over rarity and over/under rated dates in the quarter series. I have used tge BCCS rarity census from 2008 as a guide, and tweaked it to reflect my own experience, and my interpretation of other collector's experience locating original/problem free examples. Below I am listing my own personal findings after 5 years' involvement pursuing these coins, primarily in AU grades. I will expound further below to reflect coins I consider to be over rated, vastly over rated, under rated, vastly under rated, and properly categorized.
Again this report uses the 2008 BCCS rarity report as a basis. I then adjust for my own experience with each issue:
R1 (common):
1892, 1897, 1898, 1899, 1902, 1904, 1906, 1906-D, 1907, 1907-D, 1908-D, 1908-O, 1909, 1911, 1912, 1912-D, 1915-D, 1915-S
R2 (slightly better date):
1892-O, 1893, 1894-S, 1895, 1900, 1900-S, 1901, 1905-S, 1907-O, 1908, 1910, 1910-S
R3 (better to scarce date):
1892-S, 1893-O, 1894, 1894-O, 1895-O, 1896, 1903, 1903-O, 1905, 1906-O, 1911-D, 1912-S, 1913, 1913-D, 1914-S,
R4 (scarce to very scarce date):
1893-S, 1895-S, 1898-S, 1899-O, 1899-S, 1900-O, 1902-O, 1902-S, 1903-S (borderline R5), 1904-O, 1904-S, 1906-S, 1908-S, 1909-O, 1909-S, 1911-S, 1913-S (borderline R5; too controversial for that lofty designation. More on that later), 1914, 1915
R5 (semi-key/ very scarce date):
1896-S, 1897-S, 1901-S, 1905-O (borderline R4), 1907-S,
R6 (Rare):
1896-O, 1897-O, 1898-O, 1901-O,
R7 (Extremely Rare):
1892-O (micro)
Comments on above: several issues you will note are 1 level above or below the BCCS report, some may be 2 levels removed. This is based on my own findings in conjunction with communication and opinions from dozens of Barber collectors and dealers specializing in the series. Many are borderline. Many are one level in terms of absolute availability and another level truly problem free (the 98-S and 01-O come to mind) - example some coins may be R4 but R5 problem free.
Some coins I have never seen in AU in 5 years but I defer to my previous theory of "small sample size. Yes, 5 years is a small sample size. I have tried to not let isolated groups of coins come to market skew my findings (ie I've not seen a 1915-P AU come to marker in 5 yrs yet still list it as R4 based on historical data, other collector/dealer opinions, pop and census reports. Small sample size applies.,
Vastly under rated: 1898-O (I almost listed this as R6 as this coin is so damn hard to find in AU, let alone choice & prob free AU), 1898-S (I've seen exactly one original AU coin, my present 55, and just a couple problem AUs in 5 years. Not often discussed or even in the avg collectors top ten tough dates. It remains vastly under rated even within collector circles), 1902-O (one of the softest struck and fewest survivors in choice AU and seldom talked about), 1903-S (one of the few remaining sleepers. Very low pops, hardly ever seen above AU50), 1906-S (see description for 1903-S), 1909-S (you almost never see it. You hear about it even less), 1911-S (next to impossible in 55/58 and extremely scarce in 50/53. All single digit pops in all 4 AU grades at PCGS with most being 5 or fewer. Who knew that? Who cared? See... Under rated), 1913-S (perhaps the most under appreciated dates of the series)
Under rated: 1894, 1895, 1895-S, 1896, 1896-O (for all it's hype, I still find this issue not truly appreciated for how scarce it is in AU, particularly choice AU and vastly under rated in prob free choice AU), 1896-S (like Rodney Dangerfield, this date don't get no respect), 1899-O (never seen and never mentioned), 1899-S, 1904-O (oft discussed - still remains one of the tougher AU coins in the series despite two AU58 examples coming to auction this month), 1905 (one of the toughest P mints in the series and still not often recognized), 1907-S (while always part if the conversation the true scarcity if this coin in AU is IMO not understood), 1908-S (still remains under appreciated), 1912-S (flies under the radar. Tough date), 1913-D (hidden in the shadows of the other tough dates),
About right: 1892, 1892-O (micro), 1893, 1893-S, 1894-O, 1894-S, 1895-O, 1897, 1897-O (recognized and identified for the rarity this coin deserves), 1897-S, 1898, 1899, 1900, 1900-O, 1901, 1901-O, 1901-S, 1902, 1903-O, 1904, 1905-O (observed and appreciated for its true difficulty), 1906, 1906-D, 1907, 1907-D, 1908, 1908-D, 1908-O, 1909, 1909-O, 1911, 1912, 1912-D, 1913 (user to be over rated; not so much any more), 1914, 1914-S, 1915, 1915-D, 1915-S
Over rated: 1892-O, 1892-S, 1893-O, 1900-S, 1902-S (scarce no doubt but it has been available a handful of times over the years. When found its usually attractive and well struck. Over rated slightly but still ferocious), 1903 (this is a tough issue but some dealers over rate it as reflected in the artificial run up on prices. I've seen this date in AU no less than half dozen times over the 5 years), 1905-S (more "common" than many believe), 1906-O, 1907-O (always seems to be one for sale somewhere!), 1910-S, 1913,
Vastly over rated: 1910-P (IMO the number one most over rated coin in the series. R2 at best IMO - I have sen no less than 15 for sale in 5 years- all different and usually AU55), 1911-D (a better date but no better. Too much respect for this coin),
Please feel free to disagree, comment, inquire, or tell me why ice lost my mind.
A lot of this is theory/opinion/first hand experience. I tried to blend it all and cone up with a non-biased assessment based on the compiled data and experiences of all collectors I know, not just first hand account >>
1st you need to clarify you are talking about 1/2's!
This post reminds me of the GS monthly summary on quarters...not very accurate IMO.
92's bring the money they do due to type collectors.
I don't have the time or desire to disect your info...but I see what I consider inaccurate info.
If the 02-S is so overrated how did my balistic bid beat you by only 1$?
Where are all the 10's you speak of?
I know of 2 05-O's in 58 of the supposedly 14 graded...where are the other 12? I really want to know! Perhaps other memebers here know???
I didn't like and thought the 98-S and 99-S you bought fromm KK were overpriced...maybe I will regret it as I had the chance to buy them before they hit the BST!
I could go further but don't have the time or desire.
Very interested in others opinions!
Hoard the keys
<< <i>
1st you need to clarify you are talking about 1/2's!
Agree, it took me to the Micro O to figure out it was about half dollars.
This post reminds me of the GS monthly summary on quarters...not very accurate IMO.
Not very accurate or you just disagree with their opinion?
92's bring the money they do due to type collectors.
This makes a lot of sense.
I don't have the time or desire to dissect your info...but I see what I consider inaccurate info.
Again, inaccurate or you just have a differing opinion? Two different animals. It would help if you offered your take on the series.
If the 02-S is so overrated how did my balistic bid beat you by only 1$?
I guess you were.
Where are all the 10's you speak of?
Since the auctions are over, probably in collections.
I know of 2 05-O's in 58 of the supposedly 14 graded...where are the other 12? I really want to know! Perhaps other memebers here know???
With 330 million people in America alone, they could be anywhere. There are a lot more collectors out there than just us forum weenies.
I didn't like and thought the 98-S and 99-S you bought fromm KK were overpriced...maybe I will regret it as I had the chance to buy them before they hit the BST!
Yes, you may certainly regret it someday, and you may not. Congrats on getting the first look.
I could go further but don't have the time or desire.
I wish you would, because I would like to hear your thoughts. You definitely are in the mix of things and have a lot of experience as well.
Very interested in others opinions!
So am I. I have little experience with AU coins. I watch some of the key date auctions from time to time but that's about it. I personally would like to hear Mike's take and Walt as well.
Thanks for taking the time to post this, Scott. It's an enjoyable read IMO. >>
As XTC once said, and what a great song too .. I'm the Mayor of Simpleton.
Scott, Thanks for sharing your opinions.
To All: Here's my take on overrated/underrated dates...
It's all personal.
Underrated: All the dates I don't have, cant find, or want to upgrade.
Overrated: All the dates I have duplicates of that nobody wants to buy.
Paesan
Paesan
<< <i>Underrated: All the dates I don't have, cant find, or want to upgrade.
Overrated: All the dates I have duplicates of that nobody wants to buy.
Paesan >>
This - and it differs for each of us.
Thanks for your thoughtful barber half ratings. I always enjoy reading other's opinions as to rarity and over/under rated coins.
I don't collect barber halves, but I'll share your post with my friend Jim and get his thoughts. Thanks again and keep up the good work!
Doug
<< <i>I kind of liked the GS monthly summary on quarters. Thought the author was clever, knowledgable, and quite articulate. Of course, it was an op-ed so there is no right and wrong, just personal experience.
Paesan >>
Lenny,
Your GS monthly summary on barber quarters was outstanding! Please continue your thoughtful contributions.
Doug
Everyone else- what is GS monthly? Greysheet? Sry bout the novice questions. I am having a tough time deciding on which coins to go after 1st in the set im attempting. I guess im pretty lucky that I have a very knowledgeable Mentor in this matter because I think I would pull my hair out Lol.
Hoard the keys
Mark, Grey sheet, GS, CDN, Coin Dealer Newsletter (I believe) all the same. Since you don't know, I'll tell the story briefly. I wrote the article in the above reference after GS approached me. I was not something I wrote and then tried to get published. I was a story about my collection, nothing more. My first draft was just that, a story. Then they asked me to edit it and include a date by date breakdown, similar to what Scott has done for the halves.
Now there are a lot of guys here that know a heck of a lot more than I do about collecting Barber quarters. I've never claimed to be an expert or to know more than anyone else about coins. Manners, yes, but not coins. While I enjoyed writing the article and have had 99% positive feedback, I stress again that it was just an opinion, open for debate, and there is no right or wrong.
If you'd like a copy of the article, or anyone else out there for that matter, send me a PM.
Paesan
Amwld - ????? lighten up.
Mark - Your 15-D looks every bit of 45, maybe 50, but the obverse spot isn't helping it any. GS is greysheet, and keep asking questions, we all are learning new things about our hobby every day.
Paesan - I like your take on over/under rated dates. Clever.
Pics for this AM, one of my favorite barber halves, bought raw in the 90's, now PC53, but IMO a very over-rated and over-priced date in G-VG:
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
Paesan
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
Great looking 1900-O, not an easy date. And in my opinion your coin is conservatively graded.
Doug
Paesan
I can see you put a lot of thought and effort into it.
The only significant difference of opinion that I would mention are the 98S and 99S halves as R4's. Being "Philippine Hoard" coins, even
dabblers in the series such as myself comes across these - yes many of these have been cleaned, but at least some nice ones seem to be
around - much more so than the 93S that you have in the same category. But again, that's just my opinion and observation.
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
Hoard the keys
I got my crossover. I don't collect dimes, but this complete
My 1899 mint set.
Order #20732063 / Submission #8376618
Line # Item # Cert # PCGS No. CoinDate Denomination Variety Country Grade
1 1 28175838 4820 1899-S 10C USA AU55 was ANACS AU58
2 1 28175839 5672 1915-S 25C USA AU58 was NGC AU58
Here is the dime. POP 4! My pictures still are not great, but getting a tad better. ?.
From Northern Illinois? Me too
That is one fantastic dime....
Rob
You and I talked about it before, but damn your friends dime is exceptional. You might consider going to an even higher figure to try and get him to part with it.
Rob - PM sent.
Jim - He likes the 95-O as much as I do, and strong offers of coins and/or money haven't had an effect. If it ever does go, I'm sure I'll have first shot.
Pics for today, my more pedestrian 95-O, was ICG-25 now PC30:
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
sometimes money just isn't enough to get somebody to part with a coin they like, I am not wealthy by far, but I have a customer who keeps trying to buy my 1873-cc Seated $ , he keeps upping the $ each time he see's me, but I just hate to sell it, not because I couldn't use the money for something else, I just would not be able to find a replacement (at least one I could swing).
_______________________
Craig
I had posted a week or so ago about the elusiveness of finding a 1904-O Quarter nice in XF or AU or MS ... Craig and Vern posted splendid eye appealing examples. I have gone through 3 AU and 2 XF 1904-O Quarters and was fortunately able to get out those pretty much even.
I waited a month of Sundays but finally a very nice, eye-appealing and original coin has come my way. Although a weakish strike and a coin that is over graded IMO (it resides in a PCGS AU55 holder - I say AU50/53 tops), the coin is very original and very appealing.
There is luster (as usual, not well seen in my photos), the fields and cheek are very clean, and the color is perfect. There are no hair lines or other distractions to speak of - the overall eye appeal is excellent. I will sacrifice strike for originality and eye appeal 8 days a week.
Scott, Congrats on finally finding an 04-O that you like. I like it too. I grade 53, would give it a 55 save a few dark spots, but looks very original for sure.
Still very curious about the 01-S sweepstakes! I guess we will know soon enough.
Paesan
-Barberkeys, I have grown accustomed to looking forward to your quarter pics each morning, the 95 O dime sure was a sweet change of pace...
-Labelman, that 95 O quarter looks tremendous!
-Scott, very nice 04 O. Excellent pickup.
Great night of entertainment tonight with a couple of interesting football games on TV and three nice 01 S quarters ending on Heritage. Sure wish I had a spare 50 K laying around!!
Always looking for tougher PSA 10's of Nolan Arenado, Alex Bregman, Mookie Betts, Francisco Lindor, and Mike Trout.
Scott - I don't think these pics do your 04-O justice. Can't wait to see it in hand. Great acquisition.
Paesan - It will be an exciting Friday night.
JKT - Welcome, please add a pic or two yourself.
For tonight, another year in my raw collection:
l
It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got.
Hoard the keys
Congrats Mark - that's a tough coin to find. Are you paying him I'm all pennies ?
Lenny - looked closely under a loup - the spot at 2:00 is almost certainly caked on dirt
. The smaller one slightly higher could be toning or could be corrosion, hard to tell.
Scott, I don't think you overpaid for your 07-S.
Vern, I think your raw set is the most impressive Barber collection I've seen. In the age of plastic and numbers, that's a special set.
Paesan
Cheesman- Very sweet dime although im not familiar with the Barber Dimes I thought about trying to assemble a circulated set.
Vern- As usual I see more amazing coins
Hoard the keys
Oh, and the 95-O dime is amazing.