Price Guide for 1903 Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $14.00 – $150.00Uncirculated: $44.00 – $7,050.00
-
eBayCirculated: $12.56 – $155.00Uncirculated: $30.00 – $405.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6.00 – $195.00Uncirculated: $210.00 – $7,250.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $8.00 – $253.00Uncirculated: $2.75 – $20,700.00
-
eBayCirculated: $6.50 – $219.99Uncirculated: $89.79 – $375.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $6.00 – $250.00Uncirculated: $300.00 – $17,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $23.00 – $1,620.00Uncirculated: $5.25 – $17,038.00
-
eBayCirculated: $26.00 – $1,325.00Uncirculated: $1,795.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $40.00 – $1,500.00Uncirculated: $1,600.00 – $22,500.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $256.00 – $1,553.00Uncirculated: $1.60 – $14,100.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $252.07 – $2,612.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $275.00Uncirculated: $345.00 – $16,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $525.00 – $748.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $450.00 – $750.00
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $305.50Uncirculated: $288.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $125.00 – $300.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,121.00 – $2,645.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $875.00 – $17,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1903 Dime
The 1903 Barber Dime, also known as the Liberty Head Dime, was part of the Barber coinage series designed by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber. This series, which included dimes, quarters, and half dollars, was introduced in 1892 and continued until 1916. The Barber Dime replaced the long-running Seated Liberty design and represented a more modern aesthetic for American coinage at the turn of the 20th century.
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 17.9 mm |
| Mint Marks | O, P, S |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the words 'ONE DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1903 Barber Dime significantly impacts its value. Circulated examples are relatively common and affordable, but the value increases dramatically for uncirculated specimens. Coins in Mint State (MS) grades, particularly MS65 and above, are scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster adds significant value to uncirculated coins.
3. Surface preservation: Fewer contact marks and scratches increase value.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance a coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 19,500,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 4,450,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate to High, especially for high-grade examples
Mintage: 13,220,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, higher for well-preserved specimens
Several factors can influence the value of a 1903 Barber Dime beyond its condition:
1. Mint mark: New Orleans (O) mint coins are generally more valuable due to lower mintage.
2. Die state: Late die state coins with interesting die cracks or cuds may command a premium.
3. Historical significance: As an early 20th-century coin, it appeals to collectors of Barber coinage and type set collectors.
4. Overall eye appeal: Coins with exceptional visual appeal often sell for more than typical examples in the same grade.
For all mint locations, examples with strong strikes and original surfaces are highly prized, especially in higher grades. The 1903 Barber Dime is not considered a key date, but high-grade examples are scarce and valuable.
