The 1794 Flowing Hair half dollar holds historical significance as the first half dollar minted by the United States. It is part of the Flowing Hair series, issued in 1794 and 1795. With only 23,464 coins minted in 1794, it stands as a rare and highly sought-after coin among collectors due to its historical relevance and scarcity.
The 1794 Flowing Hair half dollar was designed by Robert Scot and was among the first silver coins struck by the United States Mint. The coin's obverse features Liberty with flowing hair, a design symbolizing freedom, while the reverse depicts an eagle surrounded by a wreath. This series was produced for just two years before being replaced by the Draped Bust design in 1796. The coin's release marked a significant milestone in the development of U.S. coinage.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Size | 32.5 millimeters |
| Denomination | 0.5 USD |
| Gross Weight | 13.48 grams |
| Actual Silver Weight | 0.3868 troy ounces of silver |
| Fineness/Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Diameter | 32.5 millimeters |
| Thickness | 2.15 millimeters |
| Specific Gravity | ~10.3 |
| Numismatic Price Range | $10000 - $100000+ |
The obverse of the 1794 half dollar shows the profile of Liberty with flowing hair, accompanied by the inscription "LIBERTY" and the year "1794." The reverse features a small eagle enclosed in a wreath with the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" surrounding it. The coin's simple yet elegant design is a testament to early American artistry, reflecting the fledgling nation's aspirations.
As the first U.S. half dollar, the 1794 Flowing Hair coin is of immense importance in numismatic circles. Its rarity, low mintage, and historical significance as an early American coin make it a prized collectible. The Flowing Hair series represents the experimental stage of American coinage, marking the country's transition from colonial to national currency. These coins are highly valued for their beauty, historical context, and role in shaping the early U.S. monetary system.
The 1794 Flowing Hair half dollar is a rare and highly valuable coin, particularly in high-grade conditions. In circulated grades, the coin can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to over $100,000, depending on its condition. Mint State examples are extremely rare, and prices for these can reach into the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. The coin’s value is driven by its scarcity, historical importance, and demand among collectors.
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