1894-S Barber Dime

Mystery surrounds the circumstances of the production and disposition of the 1894-S Barber dime.

Only 24 pieces were produced at the San Francisco Mint, all in Proof. Fewer than a dozen coins can be accounted for today. Two pieces saw circulation.

The coins are the rarest of the denominations designed by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber.

Several theories exist as to why they were struck. One is that the Mint needed to balance its bullion accounts by June 30, the end of the fiscal year. Another is that the pieces were for assay.

The most popular theory is that when bankers realized no dimes were set for production at San Francisco, they contacted Mint Superintendent J. Daggett and asked him to strike a few coins.