Numismatic

1908-S Barber Half Dollar VG

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Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this 1908 half dollar represents a classic era of United States silver coinage. Composed of 90 percent silver, containing 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal, the coin showcases the enduring artwork of Charles Barber. This particular piece survives in Very Good condition, displaying the honest wear of a coin that actively circulated at the turn of the twentieth century. The obverse presents a proud portrait of Lady Liberty facing right. She wears a traditional Phrygian cap adorned with a laurel wreath, with the word LIBERTY clearly visible on her headband. Encircling her image is the motto IN GOD WE TRUST alongside the 1908 year of issuance. On the reverse, a heraldic eagle commands attention with its wings fully spread. A protective shield covers the eagle's chest, while its beak holds a scroll inscribed with the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. In its talons, the eagle firmly grasps both an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, symbolizing a preference for peace but a readiness for defense. The San Francisco mint mark is placed below the eagle, just above the denomination of HALF DOLLAR.