William Barber (engraver)

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William Barber (2 May 1807 – 31 August 1879) was the fifth Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1869 until his death. He succeeded James B. Longacre in the position.

Barber is best known for his "Britannia"-inspired trade dollar design, which was produced from 1873-1878 for circulation in the Far East, and in proof-only form thereafter until 1885. The 1884 and 1885 Trade Dollars are ultra-rarities, with ten and five coined, respectively. He also adapted the long-standing Seated Liberty design for use on the ill-fated 20-cent piece, which saw circulation only in 1875 and 1876, with proofs struck in 1877 and 1878.

Barber was a prolific pattern designer, and for a time engaged in a "pattern war" with fellow coin designer and future Chief Engraver George T. Morgan. Barber was succeeded as Chief Engraver by his son Charles.