Semi-Numismatic

1909-O Barber Quarter AG

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The 1909 Barber quarter dollar represents a fascinating moment in United States coinage, minted in the historic southern city of New Orleans. Struck from 90 percent fine silver, this coin contains approximately 0.1788 troy ounces of precious metal. It carries the distinctive "O" mint mark, identifying its origin from the Louisiana facility during the final years that mint operated. Designed by Charles Barber, the obverse of the coin showcases a classical profile of Lady Liberty. She is depicted wearing a traditional laurel wreath and a Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom. Above her head, the national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed, while the year 1909 is positioned at the bottom of the design. The reverse side displays a powerful heraldic eagle with its wings spread wide. A protective shield rests upon the eagle's chest, and the bird holds a banner in its beak. In its talons, it grips both an olive branch representing peace and a cluster of arrows representing strength. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "QUARTER DOLLAR" frame this detailed patriotic motif.