The 2024 Flowing Hair Silver Medal is a collectible medal issued by the United States Mint to celebrate the 230th anniversary of the original Flowing Hair dollar. This medal was struck from .999 fine silver, produced in limited quantities, and intended to connect collectors and history enthusiasts with a foundational piece of America’s numismatic history.
The Role of Commemorative Medals
The 2024 Flowing Hair Silver Medal continues the long-standing American tradition of commemorative medals. These pieces serve as collectibles and as tangible records of milestones, achievements, and national values.
Development of the Flowing Hair Medal
The medal was crafted by Mint artists in collaboration with the Artistic Infusion Program and guided by advisory committees such as the Commission of Fine Arts and Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee. Its design closely echoes Robert Scot’s original 1794 creation.
Design of the 2024 Flowing Hair Silver Medal
While the original Flowing Hair dollar was struck with a screw press, modern techniques such as advanced die making and laser engraving were used to ensure clarity and fidelity in every detail of the 2024 release. Public commentary and advisory input refined the design, resulting in a historically accurate yet contemporary piece.
Obverse Design
The obverse depicts a personified Liberty facing right with flowing hair that looks like it is being swept back by wind. She is surrounded by 15 stars, symbolizing the 15 states which had ratified the U.S. Constitution when the 1794 issue was released. Below the design is the date.
Reverse Design
The reverse of the 2024 Flowing Hair medal features the eagle from the 1794 Flowing Hair dollar with outstretched wings, surrounded by a wreath of laurel and the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Specifications and Presentation
- Composition: One troy ounce of .999 fine silver
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Thickness 6.2 mm
- Finish: Uncirculated; sharp details through modern die technology
- Packaging: Encapsulated in a special presentation case, with premium packaging for limited editions
- The 2024 Flowing Hair medal was also issued as a high relief gold coin with a total mintage of only 17,500 pieces.
The 230 Privy Mark: Technical and Symbolic Features
A notable feature is the inclusion of a “230” privy mark on 1,794 medals, directly commemorating the 230th anniversary and nearly matching the original 1794 mintage of 1,758 coins. These 230 medals include a certificate of authenticity hand-signed by the Mint Director, elevating their exclusivity for collectors. Privy marks serve as a historical marker and as an authenticity feature to identify limited-edition pieces.
The 2024 medal is distinguished by its faithful rendering of the original design, anniversary marking, and modern technical execution.
Timeline: Flowing Hair Design Milestones
- 1794: First Flowing Hair dollar struck
- Early 20th Century: Theme revisited in medals and commemoratives
- 2014: Contemporary reinterpretations issued
- 2024: 230th anniversary with replica design and privy mark
Community and Market Impact
The 2024 Flowing Hair Silver Medal received strong interest from collectors and dealers, supported by its historical fidelity, technical excellence, and limited availability. Versions with the “230” privy mark and signed certificates have attracted notable premiums on secondary markets, while the standard medals maintain steady collector demand.
Mintage Limit: 75,000 pieces, including 1,794 with the “230” privy mark and 230 with signed certificates
The 2024 Flowing Hair Silver Medal is an officially authorized, artfully crafted, and historically resonant tribute to the earliest days of U.S. silver coinage. By meticulously recreating the iconic Flowing Hair design and marking a significant anniversary, the medal offers collectors, historians, and numismatists a distinguished link between America’s founding coinage and the ongoing story of its commemorative traditions.
