Flowing Hair Half Dime Values
How Much Flowing Hair Half Dimes are Worth: Flowing Hair Half Dime 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 | -- | -- | $3,180.00 | $4,300.00 | $5,310.00 | $9,125.00 | $12,500.00 | $21,850.00 | $33,875.00 | $41,750.00 | $81,300.00 | $153,500.00 |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $2,140.00 | $2,790.00 | $3,705.00 | $6,110.00 | $6,995.00 | $10,950.00 | $15,400.00 | $25,800.00 | $42,300.00 | $81,300.00 |
History of the Flowing Hair Half Dime
The Flowing Hair Half Dime, minted from 1794 to 1795, is the first official U.S. half dime and among the earliest coins produced by the United States Mint. With a two-year mintage, these coins are considered significant pieces of early U.S. coinage history.
On the obverse, Lady Liberty has long, flowing hair. On the reverse, a small eagle with outstretched wings is encircled by a laurel wreath, representing national unity and strength.
The Flowing Hair Half Dime was introduced in 1794 and designed by Robert Scot. This coin was released after the Coinage Act of 1792, which authorized the minting of various gold, silver, and copper denominations. Due to the minting technology available at the time, many examples have weak strikes and planchet imperfections. In 1796, the Draped Bust Half Dime replaced the Flowing Hair design.
Rarest Coins in the Series
Collectors value Flowing Hair Half Dimes for their rarity and their role in early U.S. coinage. Between 1794 and 1795, the total mintage was only approximately 86,500 coins, and surviving specimens are extremely scarce, especially in high grades.
- 1794: The first year of issue and one of the rarest half dimes.
- 1795: Slightly more common but still highly sought after.
- 1795 Overton Varieties: Small die variations exist in lettering and strike details.
Additionally, collectors look for well-struck examples, original surfaces, and problem-free coins, as many surviving specimens show heavy wear or damage.
Types of Collections
- Historical Flowing Hair Half Dime Collection: This set features the earliest U.S. half dimes minted from 1794 to 1795, the first official half dimes struck by the U.S. Mint. Collectors focus on the two-year issues, including the rare 1794 and the slightly more common 1795, highlighting the historical design of Liberty with flowing hair and a wreath-encircled eagle.
- Flowing Hair Half Dime Varieties Collection: This collection focuses on the approximately 15 known die varieties and minor design differences in lettering and strike across 1794 and 1795 issues, particularly popular among specialists interested in die marriages and subtle minting details. Varieties include the scarce Valentine-1 (1794) and rare 1795 die combinations with few surviving examples.
- High-Grade Flowing Hair Half Dime Set: This focuses on acquiring coins in choice Mint State grades or better to showcase sharp Liberty hair details, strong eagle features, and original surfaces, which are exceedingly rare and command premium values because most surviving coins show heavy wear due to primitive striking methods.
Beginner vs. Advanced Collecting
Beginner Collecting
Flowing Hair Half Dimes are early U.S. silver coins (1794 – 1795) that are generally scarce, high-priced, and challenging to authenticate and grade accurately. Because of these factors, many new collectors start with more common types before considering this series. Collectors interested in early U.S. history who have the required budget may choose to acquire a single lower-grade example from a reputable specialist dealer. When selecting a coin, look for a readable date, a recognizable Liberty portrait and reverse design, and surfaces that are not heavily corroded or damaged. Store the coin in an archival-quality, inert holder in a stable, low-humidity environment to help preserve its condition.
Advanced Collecting
Many advanced collectors focus on Flowing Hair Half Dimes for their historical significance, limited mintages, and numerous known varieties. Building a comprehensive collection can take years and typically requires patience, detailed research, and significant financial outlays. These coins are most often acquired through major auctions and established numismatic dealers, and they are also represented in institutional collections. Collectors generally seek examples with sharp Liberty hair, eagle, and wreath detail, along with relatively problem-free surfaces. High-grade coins are commonly kept in certified holders and stored in climate-controlled, low-humidity environments to help protect their condition.
Investment Potential
The Flowing Hair Half Dime is considered a premium collectible due to its rarity, early U.S. Mint origin, and collector interest. Its historical significance contributes to its continued desirability in the numismatic market. As one of the first coins produced by the U.S. Mint, it holds historical significance, ensuring long-term value appreciation. High-grade examples and coins with well-documented pedigrees tend to command higher premiums in the marketplace.