The 1905-O “Micro O” Barber Dime (Buy on eBay) is the only major variety of the series. Discovered by Howard R. Newcomb in 1912, the mint mark is about half the size of the standard New Orleans mint mark for the dime.
The curious variety was created when a mintmark punch intended for the quarter was used on a dime reverse die. Even though the quarter is the larger coin, its design makes the mintmark smaller.
The issue carries a premium across all grade levels, but emerges as a rarity in mint state grades. The major grading services currently list only 15 pieces in uncirculated condition.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: Charles E. Barber
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Diameter: 17.9 mm
- Edge: Reeded
