Flowing Hair Half Dime (1794 - 1795)

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Flowing Hair Half Dime (1794–1795)

The Flowing Hair Half Dime, minted in 1794 and 1795, holds a special place in U.S. numismatics as one of the first small-denomination silver coins issued by the United States. With its historical significance and unique design, this coin appeals to collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

Coin Specifications

  • Designer: Robert Scot
  • Issue Dates: 1794–1795
  • Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
  • Diameter: 16.5 mm
  • Weight: 1.34 grams (20.8 grains)
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Mintage: 86,416 (combined for both years)
  • Proof Mintage: None

Design Highlights

Obverse

  • Portrait: Miss Liberty with flowing hair, facing right.
  • Inscription: "LIBERTY" above and the date below.
  • Stars: Eight stars behind Liberty's head and seven stars in front.

Reverse

  • Central Motif: A small eagle perched on a cloud, surrounded by an open wreath.
  • Inscription: "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircling the design.
  • Notable Omission: No denomination or value is indicated on the coin.

Collectability and Rarity

The 1794 and 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dimes are prized among collectors, though 1795 is more frequently encountered.

  • Grades Commonly Found: Coins are typically seen in grades from Good to Very Fine.
  • Rarity in High Grades: Extremely Fine and AU examples are elusive, while Uncirculated specimens are exceedingly rare, often surfacing only during major auctions.
  • Adjustment Marks: Many coins display parallel lines from Mint-era planchet adjustments, which do not significantly affect their value unless severe.

Historical Context

The Flowing Hair design reflects early U.S. Mint artistry and practicality. At the time, coins bore no denomination markings, relying instead on size and weight to convey their value. This design was part of the Mint's efforts to introduce standardized U.S. coinage to a chaotic mix of foreign coins in circulation.

Adjustment Marks

  • Coins from this era often exhibit adjustment marks, where excess metal was filed off planchets before striking to ensure correct weight.
  • These marks, visible as parallel lines, are considered a normal feature and do not detract from a coin’s value unless they obscure key design elements.

Surviving Specimens

  • 1794: Considerably rarer than 1795, with far fewer surviving examples.
  • 1795: Likely minted in greater numbers, with approximately three to four times as many surviving as the 1794 issue.
  • Condition: Most surviving coins are heavily worn, with Good to Fine grades being typical. High-grade examples are rare and highly sought after.

Further Reading and Resources

Collectors interested in Flowing Hair Half Dimes can explore detailed references like The United States Half Dimes by D.W. Valentine, and the modern standard, Federal Half Dimes 1792–1837 by R.J. Logan and J. McCloskey. These works provide comprehensive insights into die varieties, historical context, and design evolution.

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