Semi-Numismatic

1905-O Barber Quarter Good

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In 1905, the United States Mint at New Orleans produced a run of silver quarters that capture the aesthetic of early twentieth-century American coinage. This twenty-five cent piece is composed of 90 percent silver, containing approximately 0.1788 troy ounces of the precious metal. It represents a bygone era of coin production, originating from the historic southern branch mint before its operations ceased. The obverse of the coin displays a profile of Lady Liberty. She is depicted wearing a laurel wreath over a Phrygian cap, a traditional symbol of freedom. The motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed above her, with the year 1905 anchored at the bottom. This design was created by Charles Barber, whose work defined the look of America's minor silver coinage during this period. 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 banner displaying the classic national motto, "E PLURIBUS UNUM". Its talons grasp both an olive branch and a cluster of arrows, symbolizing a desire for peace alongside a readiness for defense. The mint mark "O" is placed below the eagle, identifying its origin in New Orleans, while the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "QUARTER DOLLAR" frame the entire design.