Numismatic

1898 Barber Half Dollar Good

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In 1898, the United States Mint produced this half dollar, a 90 percent silver coin that showcases the artistic vision of designer Charles Barber. This piece, carrying a face value of 50 cents, contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. It represents a classic era of American coinage, minted at the Philadelphia facility during the final years of the nineteenth century. The obverse side presents a dignified profile of Lady Liberty, who wears a laurel wreath atop her head alongside a traditional Phrygian cap. The year 1898 is clearly visible at the bottom of the design, while the national motto, "IN GOD WE TRUST," arches above her portrait. On the reverse, a powerful heraldic eagle dominates the field with its wings spread wide. A protective shield is positioned across the bird's chest. In its beak, the eagle holds a flowing banner, while its talons grasp an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, symbolizing both peace and defense. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DOLLAR" frame this classic national motif.