PCGS Nos: 4809, 4880

Mintage:
Circulation strikes: 2,000,000
Proofs: 762

Designer: Charles E. Barber

Diameter: 17.9 millimeters

Metal content:
Silver - 90%
Copper - 10%

Weight: ±2.5 grams

Edge: Reeded

Mintmark: None (for Philadelphia) just below the wreath on the reverse

Images courtesy of Heritage Numismatic Auctions

Notes:
"The 1896-P&O are similar to their 1894 counterparts. In each case the P-mint is fairly tough and the O-mint is very scarce. The 1896-S, with its low mintage, attracts a lot of collector attention. But with 58 certified in mint state it is not as scarce as one would think. Collectors not familiar with this series usually don't give the 1896-O the respect it deserves.

As with all the earlier dates in this series, the best strike belongs to the S-mint. The P-mint usually will be decent, but the 1896-O will have an indifferent strike at best."

<sup>The finest Uncirculated example graded by PCGS is a single MS-67.

The finest Proof examples graded by PCGS are 7 PR-67's.</sup>

^{The finest Proof Cameo example graded by PCGS is a single PRCA-67.}

^{The finest Proof Deep Cameo example graded by PCGS is a single PRDC-66.}

Sources and/or recommended reading:
"The Complete Guide To Certified Barber Coinage" by David & John Feigenbaum

"The PCGS Population Report, July 2003" by The Professional Coin Grading Service