Flowing Hair Dollar Values
How Much Flowing Hair Dollars are Worth: Flowing Hair Dollar Values & Coin Price Chart
Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | U-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1800 | P | Plain 4- Stemless Wreath | Red-brown | 200 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | 1000 | 1200 | 1100 |
| Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1794 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $137,000 | $185,500 | $238,000 | $433,000 | $612,500 | $1,147,500 | $1,867,500 | $3,085,000 | $3,900,000 | $6,125,000 |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | 3 Leaves | -- | $4,870 | $6,530 | $8,063 | $14,800 | $28,650 | $86,100 | $188,750 | $311,250 | $622,500 | $1,162,500 |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | 2 Leaves | -- | $5,008 | $7,219 | $8,310 | $16,925 | $29,200 | $92,700 | $209,000 | $319,500 | $683,000 | -- |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | Silver Plug | -- | $9,600 | $13,750 | $16,875 | $31,900 | $71,300 | $221,250 | $318,000 | $437,000 | $730,000 | -- |
Flowing Hair Dollar: The First Silver Dollar of the United States
Minted in 1794 and 1795, the Flowing Hair Dollar represents the first official silver dollar struck by the United States Mint. Designed by Robert Scot, this coin marked a significant milestone in the nation’s financial system, symbolizing the young country’s independence and economic aspirations. With its short mintage period, historical significance, and extreme rarity, the Flowing Hair Dollar remains one of the most coveted pieces in American numismatics.
The Birth of the Flowing Hair Dollar
The Coinage Act of 1792 authorized the production of U.S. coinage, and by 1794, the Mint struck its first silver dollars. The Flowing Hair design was chosen to represent a youthful and free America, with Liberty’s unbound hair flowing behind her as a symbol of newfound independence.
The obverse features Liberty facing right, encircled by stars representing the original states, while the reverse displays a small eagle surrounded by a wreath, a design reflecting classical European influences. Due to the infancy of the U.S. Mint’s operations, these coins were struck using rudimentary techniques, often resulting in weak strikes and uneven surfaces.
Why Collectors Prize the Flowing Hair Dollar
The Flowing Hair Dollar is the first silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint and holds immense historical value. Due to its limited production and age, surviving specimens are rare, particularly in higher grades. Even lower-quality examples are highly sought after, as they represent the earliest days of American coinage.
Collector’s Checklist: Key Aspects to Consider
- Where to Acquire One: Flowing Hair Dollars are seldom seen outside elite numismatic auctions and high-end private collections.
- Distinctive Features: Coins with strong details in Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s wings are the most desirable, as weak strikes were common due to the minting process of the time.
- Preservation and Storage: Given their historical importance and silver composition, these coins should be housed in museum-grade holders or certified slabs to prevent deterioration.
The Ultimate Rarity: The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar is among the most legendary coins in U.S. history, with only approximately 140 known examples. Some numismatists believe that a small number were special presentation strikes, with one specimen selling for over $10 million—the highest price ever paid for a U.S. coin.
Investment Potential of Flowing Hair Dollars
Due to their historical importance, extreme scarcity, and high collector demand, Flowing Hair Dollars are among the most valuable coins in the numismatic market. Although they are composed of 89.24% silver, the numismatic value far outweighs any intrinsic metal value. Their rarity ensures continued appreciation, making them a cornerstone investment for elite collectors.
Key Dates and Scarce Varieties
Although the series was short-lived, collectors focus on:
- 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar – The inaugural issue, exceedingly rare and historic.
- 1795 Flowing Hair Dollar – Slightly more available than its predecessor, yet still a prized collectible.
Scot’s Artistic Contribution to U.S. Coinage
The Flowing Hair design created by Robert Scot set a precedent for early American coinage and influenced future U.S. dollar designs. Though it was quickly replaced by the Draped Bust Dollar in 1796, the Flowing Hair Dollar remains an enduring symbol of the nation’s early financial ambitions.
Why Buy Flowing Hair Dollars?
The Flowing Hair Dollar represents the birth of American silver coinage, making it one of the most important and valuable coins ever struck by the United States. Whether acquired for its historical significance, investment potential, or sheer rarity, this coin remains an elite treasure in numismatics, telling the story of a young nation establishing its financial identity.
