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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 26917
The 1905-O "Micro O" Barber Dime, categorized as Very Good (VG) condition, stands as a fascinating artifact within the broader narrative of American numismatics. This particular coin, minted at the New Orleans Mint, features a unique "Micro O" mint mark, a smaller-than-standard mint mark that distinguishes it from typical issues and makes it a sought-after rarity among collectors. The Barber Dime series, named after its designer Charles E. Barber, ran from 1892 to 1916 and is celebrated for its classical design and embodiment of the American spirit during that era.
The design of the Barber Dime is emblematic of the neoclassical aesthetic that was prevalent in United States coinage at the time. The obverse features the head of Liberty, wearing a Phrygian cap—a symbol of freedom and the pursuit of liberty—adorned with a laurel wreath, and a headband inscribed with "LIBERTY." This design reflects the American values of liberty and enlightenment. On the reverse, the coin features a simple but elegant wreath that encircles the denomination, "ONE DIME," which underscores the coin’s function as currency while maintaining stylistic simplicity and balance.
In Very Good condition, this 1905-O "Micro O" Barber Dime shows moderate to considerable wear. The finer details of Liberty's leaf crown and the facial features are worn but discernible, with major design elements visible but softened due to circulation. This level of wear is typical for coins that have been used in commerce over a significant period. Coins in VG condition are especially valued by collectors for their historical charm and the stories they represent, even though they may not have the sharp details of higher-grade coins.
For packaging and preservation, a 1905-O "Micro O" Barber Dime in Very Good condition is typically secured in a protective clear plastic flip to prevent further wear.
The mintage of the 1905-O Barber Dimes, particularly those with the "Micro O" mint mark, was relatively limited, and fewer still survive today in collectible condition. The "Micro O" variation itself is a mint error, making this version of the dime a rarity that captures the interest of collectors who are keen on pieces that illustrate minting anomalies and peculiarities from historical U.S. coinage.
In summary, the 1905-O "Micro O" Barber Dime in Very Good condition is not just a small piece of silver; it's a window into the monetary history and manufacturing quirks of early 20th-century America. For collectors, this coin offers an accessible piece of numismatic history, demonstrating the rich narrative of American coinage and the inherent imperfections that come with the minting process. Collecting such a coin is an opportunity to own a tangible part of U.S. history, one that reflects both the artistic ambitions and the technical limitations of its time.