Collection: Flowing Hair Dollar (1794 - 1795)

The Flowing Hair Dollar, the first silver dollar struck by the United States Mint, holds a significant place in numismatic history. Minted in limited quantities during its short two-year production, this iconic coin remains a cornerstone for collectors seeking early American coinage.

Key Specifications

• Designer: Robert Scot
• Issue Dates: 1794–1795
• Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
• Diameter: 39–40 mm
• Weight: 26.96 grams (416.05 grains)
• Edge: Lettered HUNDRED CENTS ONE DOLLAR OR UNIT
• Business Strike Mintage: 162,053
• Proof Mintage: None

Design Details

Obverse

The obverse features a depiction of Miss Liberty facing right with flowing hair, symbolizing freedom and youth.

• Inscriptions Include:
  • LIBERTY above
  • Date below
  • Eight stars to the left and seven to the right

Reverse

The reverse design showcases a "small" eagle perched on a cloud and encircled by an open wreath.

• Inscriptions Include:
  • UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Both sides of the coin are bordered by denticles, a hallmark of early U.S. coinage.

Historical Context and Mintage

• 1794 Issues:

  • Just 1,758 coins were struck in 1794, making this date one of the rarest and most coveted in U.S. coinage history. Surviving examples are incredibly scarce, with even low-grade coins commanding significant premiums.

• 1795 Issues:

  • A larger mintage of 160,295 coins occurred in 1795, though it is believed that some may have been dated 1794. The 1795 Flowing Hair dollar is far more accessible for collectors, though high-grade examples remain rare.

Collectibility and Market Appeal

1. Rarity and Prestige:

   • The 1794 Flowing Hair dollar is a numismatic treasure, with only a handful surviving in any grade. Its historical significance and scarcity make it a prized possession for elite collectors.

2. Condition Challenges:

   • Most surviving examples, especially from 1795, range from About Good to Very Fine. Many coins exhibit mint-caused adjustment marks or areas of light striking, typical of early U.S. coinage.

3. High-Grade Specimens:

   • Coins in Extremely Fine (XF) condition are scarce but available with diligent searching. AU coins are rare, and strictly Uncirculated examples are exceptionally rare, often fetching record-breaking prices. 

Why Collect Flowing Hair Dollars?

• Historic First:
  As the first silver dollar ever minted by the United States, the Flowing Hair dollar represents the dawn of American coinage.

• Timeless Design:
  The flowing hair obverse and small eagle reverse exude classic beauty, making this coin a standout in any collection.

• Elite Collectibility:
  Owning a Flowing Hair dollar, especially a 1794 issue, is a testament to the collector’s commitment to preserving American history.

Shop Flowing Hair Dollars at ParadimeCoins.com

Explore our selection of Flowing Hair Dollars at ParadimeCoins.com and own a piece of numismatic history. Whether you're seeking a 1795 example for a type set or aspiring to acquire the elusive 1794 rarity, our inventory offers exceptional coins for discerning collectors. Start your journey today!