1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar

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.

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Historical Context

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.

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Specifications:

Size: Half dollar
Denomination: Fifty cents (half dollar)
Gross Weight: Approximately 13.48 grams
Actual Silver Weight: Approximately 12.09 grams
Fineness/Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
Diameter: 32.5 millimeters
Thickness: 2.3 millimeters
Specific Gravity: Not provided

Coin Description:

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.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

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.

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Numismatic Value:

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.

Free Appraisal With No Obligation To Sell

Take the first step toward selling your silver coins by getting a free appraisal today. Our process is designed to be transparent, convenient, and stress-free, giving you the confidence to sell when you’re ready.

At Coinfully, we’re committed to helping you get the most for your silver coins—all from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know I’m getting a fair price for my half dollars?

At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of your half dollars, including their silver content and numismatic value. We provide a detailed breakdown of how we determine your offer so that you can be fully informed and confident in the price you receive.

Is my shipment insured when I send my half dollars to Coinfully?

Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending Flowing Hair half dollars, Walking Liberty half dollars, or Kennedy half dollars, your coins are insured throughout the entire shipping process, ensuring that your valuable items are protected and safe.

What types of half dollars does Coinfully buy?

We buy all types of U.S. half dollars, including Flowing Hair, Draped Bust, Capped Bust, Seated Liberty, Barber, Walking Liberty, Franklin, and Kennedy half dollars, and other collectible half dollars. Whether your half dollars are valuable for their silver content or their collectibility, we’re interested in making you a competitive offer.

What if I’m not ready to sell after receiving an appraisal?

There’s no obligation to sell your half dollars after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We provide a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your coins. You can choose to sell when you’re ready, with no pressure from us.

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