Numismatic

1896-O Barber Half Dollar Fine

---

In 1896, the New Orleans Mint struck a limited run of silver half dollars, producing just 924,000 pieces. This particular coin, preserved in Fine condition, represents a fascinating era of American coinage. Crafted from 90 percent silver, it contains 0.3575 troy ounces of the precious metal, serving as a tangible connection to late nineteenth-century commerce. The coin features the classic artwork of Charles Barber. On the obverse, Lady Liberty is depicted facing right, adorned with a laurel wreath and a Phrygian cap. Above her head, the national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is clearly legible, with the year 1896 anchored at the bottom. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with its wings spread wide, protecting a shield on its chest. In its beak, the eagle holds a ribbon bearing the traditional motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM". Its talons grasp an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, representing peace and readiness. The mint mark "O" is positioned below the eagle, indicating its origin at the historic Louisiana facility, nestled between the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DOLLAR".