1913 Numismatic Tales: Half Dollar and Dollar Coins

The year 1913 is quite interesting for collectors and researchers from the numismatic point of view. This period was symbolized by the release of coins that became significant symbols of their time - one such coin is the 1913 Barber half dollar. Elegantly made and rare, this coin holds both economic significance and a piece of history captured in the metal. However, the myths and legends that surround the mystical 1913 dollar coin - a piece that remains a mystery to collectors - are no less fascinating.

These two coins, one real and the other mysterious and unknown, demonstrate the endless desire of collectors to learn new things, explore and collect the historic and almost unreachable pieces. So, let's get into the history, details and unique features of pieces, check the value of these coins and finally understand where the myths end and the truth about these coins begins.

Barber Half Dollars: A History Lovers’ Real Collectible

The 1913 Barber half dollar is a classic United States coin issued as part of a series that was minted from 1892 to 1915. This half-dollar is known for its design created by the U.S. Mint's chief engraver, Charles Barber. While the coin is not the most unique or rare among other Barber-era pieces, it is still highly prized among collectors for its historical significance and elegant design.

Design Features and Characteristics

The design was thought to be quite interesting but rather discreet (the design elements do not overload the coin's styling). Just like before (e.g., on the 1916 D Mercury dimes), the obverse shows the profile of Liberty yet with a crown of laurel leaves on her head, looking to the right proudly and confidently. The inscription “LIBERTY” is located on a wreath, above Liberty's head is minted the familiar motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and along the edge of the coin are embossed stars symbolizing the 13 first states. Under the portrait is the year of issue - 1913.

The reverse of the coin depicts the emblem of the United States - an eagle with spread wings, holding in its talons an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and readiness to defend. The eagle holds in its beak a ribbon with the famous motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and around it - the phrase “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” (above the head) and the denomination “HALF DOLLAR” (along the bottom edge of the coin).

Other basic parameters of the coin you may find on the table below.

Historical Background: Why Is 1913 Special?

At first glance, the year 1913 Barber half dollar is no different from any other years of issue. However, the mintage of the coin was significantly reduced in this particular year, making the 1913 half dollar a rarity.

In 1913, Barber half dollar was minted at three mints:

• 1913 half dollar (no mint mark, but actually minted in Philadelphia): The mintage is about 188,000 coins, making it the rarest of all 1913 issues.

• 1913 D Barber half dollar (minted in Denver): Mintage is about 534,000 coins, which is also considered relatively low for Barber half dollars.

• 1913 S Barber half dollar (minted in San Francisco): Mintage is about 604,000 coins.

As you can see, Barber 1913 Philadelphia half dollars are rarer than the Denver and San Francisco coins, but the mintage of the coins at the other mints is not as large (compare this to the mintages of other years when millions of coins were produced).

Another aspect that draws the attention of numismatists is historical context. The 1913 Barber half dollars are coins from a period when the United States was experiencing significant changes in its economy and society. This transition was associated with urbanization and population growth. Thus, 1913 half dollars are witnesses of a transitional period of American numismatics (a time when the old gave way to the new not only in style and aesthetics).

1913 Half Dollar Value: How Much You Will Pay for the Coin

The 1913 Barber half dollar is considered a rare and valuable coin, primarily because of its low mintage and age. Of course, the Philadelphia 1913 Barber half dollar value is the highest since they were a limited edition. The coin is characterized by precise mintage and neatness of mintage, which makes it attractive to collectors.

However, finding a specimen in good condition is an almost impossible task due to the limited number of coins left in circulation and their high wear and tear. For this reason, the value of a 1913 half dollar increases significantly depending on its condition and grade. Now refer to the table to find out the approximate estimated value of the coins.

Now that you have an idea of the first and quite real interesting 1913 coin to add to your collection, it's time to talk about another one. Now let's take a look at the 1913 silver dollar and its secrets.

1913 Silver Dollar Secrets: What Is the Truth

When it comes to 1913 coins, many collectors also think of the mysterious silver dollar of this year, a coin the existence of which is the subject of many myths.

The legend says that in 1913, a batch of silver dollars was supposedly issued and either disappeared or was secretly withdrawn from circulation. This coin is attributed to mystical properties: presumably a few copies are still preserved, and their value is estimated in millions of dollars. Is it true and where can you look at this amazing coin?

In fact, such a coin never existed and the value of 1913 silver half dollar coin is nominal and purely symbolic for several reasons:

1. Lack of official data: you will not find any official source confirming the existence of the 1913 silver dollar.

2. Termination of silver coinage during this period: The last silver dollars of the Morgan series were issued in 1904. This was the year coinage came to an end, and the huge supply of silver used to produce these coins dried up. This is what led to no silver dollars (and dollars made of other metals) being minted in 1913.

3. The official restart of minting came strongly later than 1913: The next issue of Morgan silver dollars did not take place until 1921, 17 years later. The Mint resumed minting under a law that required coins to be issued to fill reserves.

Thus, the myth about the silver dollar of 1913 has no real ground, and all the rumors associated with it - just legends, creating a stir among numismatists.

The Truth Behind the Myths

The year 1913 was a milestone for American numismatics, surrounded by myths and legends. The Barber half dollar of 1913, despite its small mintage, exists and remains a popular coin among collectors, while the silver dollar of this year is only a myth supported by rumors and speculations. And in order to know all the nuances, to easily identify and verify the market value of coins and not to get into a slip (not to buy a non-existent or counterfeit coin) collectors, historians and anyone interested can seek the help of technology like the Coin ID Scanner app that has access to the most intricate examples of numismatic art such as Wheat Penny 1944 or the like. Explore fascinating myths, search for the truth, check coin values in a couple of clicks and navigate the world of numismatic mysteries with confidence.

Sources:

1. https://www.jmbullion.com/coin-info/half-dollars/barber-half-dollars/

2. https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/half-dollars/barber-half-dollars-1892-1915/16527/1913-50c-ms/#:~:text=1913%20Barber%20Half%20Dollar%20Value,for%20as%20much%20as%20%2418500