1897-S TOUGH DATE BARBER HALF

The 1897-S Barber Half Dollar is a desirable coin among collectors, particularly because it was minted at the San Francisco branch mint (indicated by the "S" mintmark). Here's a breakdown of what you should know:

Rarity and Value:

• While not as rare as some other Barber Halves (like the 1897-O or the 1898-S), the 1897-S is scarcer than the majority of dates in the series, ranking 19th rarest overall according to PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service).
• Due to its relative scarcity, the 1897-S Barber Half Dollar holds a premium value compared to more common Barber Halves.

Grading and Condition:

A coin's condition significantly impacts its value. Here's a general idea:

• Circulated Condition: A well-worn 1897-S Barber Half Dollar can range from $100 to $2,800 depending on the level of wear.
• Uncirculated Condition: Pristine, uncirculated coins (graded MS 65 and above by NGC or PCGS) can be significantly more valuable, potentially reaching $40,000 or even higher depending on the specific grade.

NGC vs PCGS Grading:

Both NGC and PCGS are reputable third-party coin grading services that assign a grade based on the coin's condition. Getting your 1897-S Barber Half Dollar graded by one of these services is recommended, as it will:

• Ensure the coin's authenticity
• Determine its exact condition based on a recognized grading scale
• Provide a more accurate estimate of value

Additional Points:

• Barber Half Dollars (1892-1915) feature Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse.
• 1897-S Barber Half Dollars are known for being well-struck coins.
• Some collectors may place a premium on coins with attractive toning (natural colorization of the surface).

Resources:

• NGC Coin Explorer - 1897-S Barber Half Dollar: [NGC 1897 S Barber Half Dollar] (Provides information and estimated value ranges based on grade)
• PCGS CoinFacts - 1897-S Barber Half Dollar: [PCGS 1897 S Barber Half] (Provides historical information and mentions rarity)