Flowing Hair Half Dollar Values
How Much Flowing Hair Half Dollars are Worth: Flowing Hair Half 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 | -- | -- | $5,715 | $7,715 | $13,440 | $34,300 | $69,400 | $260,000 | $480,000 | $982,500 | -- | -- |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $2,215 | $2,890 | $4,385 | $7,580 | $14,800 | $44,250 | $188,250 | $283,500 | $499,250 | -- |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | 1795/1795 Recut Date, 3 Leaves | -- | $2,905 | $5,200 | $7,925 | $22,825 | $46,500 | $57,750 | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | 1795/1795 Recut Date, 2 Leaves | -- | $2,215 | $2,890 | $4,813 | $13,275 | $19,850 | -- | -- | -- | $650,000 | -- |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | Small Head | -- | $2,714 | $4,813 | $8,075 | $17,150 | $30,700 | $150,000 | $435,000 | $330,000 | -- | -- |
| 1795 | (None) Phil | A over E | -- | $2,438 | $3,393 | $4,561 | $8,321 | $16,010 | $52,138 | $188,250 | $296,000 | -- | -- |
Flowing Hair Half Dollar: America’s First Half Dollar
The Flowing Hair Half Dollar, struck in 1794 and 1795, is the first half-dollar coin issued by the United States Mint. Robert Scot designed this coin as a part of the nation’s early efforts to establish a stable monetary system. Its simple yet striking design features Lady Liberty with free-flowing hair on the obverse and an early depiction of an eagle on the reverse. Due to its scarcity and connection to American history, the Flowing Hair Half Dollar remains a revered piece in numismatics.
Origins and Design Evolution
Authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792, the Flowing Hair Half Dollar was introduced in 1794 as part of the first series of federal coinage. Due to the Mint’s infancy, production was limited, with only 23,464 pieces struck over two years before being replaced by the Draped Bust design in 1796.
The obverse features Liberty with long, unbound hair, symbolizing the young nation’s freedom. The word “LIBERTY” encircles the portrait, with fifteen stars representing the original states. The reverse showcases a small eagle perched within an olive wreath, framed by the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
Why Collectors Revere the Flowing Hair Half Dollar
This short-lived series captivates collectors due to its historical significance, extreme rarity, and status as the first official half-dollar of the U.S. Mint. Since many surviving examples exhibit wear from circulation, specimens with strong details and minimal damage are particularly valuable.
Collector’s Guide: Recognizing Key Features
- Where to Find One: Flowing Hair Half Dollars are almost exclusively available through major auction houses and high-end numismatic dealers.
- Defining Characteristics: Seek coins with sharp details in Liberty’s hair and clear features on the eagle, as weak strikes were common.
- Preservation Tips: Store these coins in certified holders or controlled environments to prevent further degradation.
The Pinnacle of Rarity: 1794 Half Dollar
Among the rarest and most valuable early U.S. coins, the 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is highly coveted. With a mintage of only 5,300 coins, surviving examples, particularly those with well-defined features, fetch premium prices.
Investing in Flowing Hair Half Dollars
Due to their scarcity, numismatic importance, and consistent demand, Flowing Hair Half Dollars remain a premier investment. As one of the earliest federal issues, these coins have shown steady appreciation, especially in higher grades.
Key Dates and Unique Varieties
Given the short lifespan of the series, collectors focus on:
- 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar – The inaugural issue, rare and historically priceless.
- 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar – Slightly more common but still exceedingly valuable.
Artistic Influence and Numismatic Legacy
The Flowing Hair design was a bold representation of liberty, capturing the youthful optimism of the new republic. Though short-lived, it set the foundation for future American coinage and influenced designs for decades.
Why Buy Flowing Hair Half Dollars?
As the first half dollar in U.S. history, the Flowing Hair Half Dollar is a treasured collectible sought after for its historical importance, rarity, and investment potential. Those fortunate enough to acquire one own not just a coin, but a tangible piece of the nation’s earliest monetary history.
