Draped Bust Dollar Value
1795–1804 · $1 · 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $1,500 |
| Good (G-4) | $2,500 |
| Fine (F-12) | $5,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $25,000 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $75,000 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $375,000 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1804 Class I | The King of American Coins — only 8 known originals | $2,000,000–$7,500,000 |
| 1795 Off Center Bust | Scarce variety of the first year | $2,000–$20,000 |
| 1798 Small Eagle | Rare transitional type with old reverse | $30,000–$100,000 |
| 1799/8 | Overdate variety — popular with collectors | $2,000–$15,000 |
| 1802/1 | Overdate variety | $1,800–$12,000 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Robert Scot
- Years
- 1795–1804
- Denomination
- $1
- Composition
- 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
- Diameter
- 39 mm
- Weight
- 26.96 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Draped Bust Dollar: History & Background
The Draped Bust Dollar succeeded the Flowing Hair design and was produced in two subtypes: the Small Eagle reverse (1795–1798) and the Heraldic Eagle reverse (1798–1804). The obverse was reportedly modeled after Philadelphia socialite Ann Willing Bingham. No dollars were actually struck bearing the date 1804 during that year; the famous 1804 dollars were diplomatic presentation pieces created in 1834 and later. The series was halted after 1803 because silver dollars were being exported for their bullion value. Only 15 known examples of the 1804 dollar exist, making it one of the most famous rarities in all of numismatics.
How to Grade a Draped Bust Dollar
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →
What Affects Draped Bust Dollar Value?
Condition & Grade
The grade spread for Draped Bust Dollars is dramatic: a common-date example jumps from $1,500 in Poor to $25,000 in Uncirculated — a 17× increase. Gem-quality MS-65 specimens can reach $75,000 or more. Even a single grade point difference at the upper end can double a coin's price.
Date & Mintmark
The Draped Bust Dollar series has 5 notable key dates. The 1804 Class I is valued at $2,000,000–$7,500,000, far above common dates. Mintmark location and variety (such as overdates or repunched marks) can multiply a coin's value significantly.
Precious Metal Content
With a composition of 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper and a weight of 26.96g, the Draped Bust Dollar carries intrinsic metal value that sets a price floor. When silver prices rise, even heavily worn examples appreciate. The melt value provides downside protection that base-metal coins lack.
Strike Quality & Eye Appeal
Designed by Robert Scot, the Draped Bust Dollar (39mm diameter) can exhibit varying strike quality across different mint facilities and years. Coins with full, sharp design details, original luster, and attractive toning trade at premiums of 20–50% above the same technical grade with average eye appeal.
Collector Notes: Draped Bust Dollar
The Draped Bust Dollar (1795–1804) holds a distinctive place in US numismatics. Designed by Robert Scot, this $1 coin was struck in 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper with a diameter of 39mm and weight of 26.96 grams. These physical specifications are essential for authentication — any deviation from these measurements is a red flag for counterfeits.
Collectors approaching the Draped Bust Dollar series should start by assembling a date-and-mintmark set in a consistent grade. Fine (F-12) offers a good balance of affordability and visual appeal for most dates, with clear design elements still visible. Budget roughly $5,000 per common date in Fine condition, then set aside a larger budget for the 5 key dates in the series.
For registry set collectors pursuing top grades, the Draped Bust Dollar in MS-65 or better represents a more significant investment at $75,000+ per coin. Population reports from PCGS and NGC show that the supply of certified high-grade examples is limited, and competition among registry set collectors has driven premiums for condition-census coins.
Before purchasing any Draped Bust Dollar valued above $100, we recommend reviewing our 2026 US Coin Values Quick Reference PDF ($2.99) which includes a complete grade-by-grade price breakdown and key date identification guide for this series.
Draped Bust Dollar: Frequently Asked Questions
▶How much is a Draped Bust Dollar worth today?
A Draped Bust Dollar (1795–1804) is worth between $1,500 in Poor condition and $25,000 or more in Uncirculated condition. In the most commonly found Fine grade, expect around $5,000. Gem specimens graded MS-65 can reach $75,000 or higher. Values fluctuate with collector demand and the spot price of silver.
▶What is the most valuable Draped Bust Dollar?
The most valuable Draped Bust Dollar is the 1804 Class I — the king of american coins — only 8 known originals. This date is valued at $2,000,000–$7,500,000 depending on grade and condition. Always have potentially valuable dates authenticated by PCGS or NGC before selling.
▶How do I grade a Draped Bust Dollar?
Grading a Draped Bust Dollar starts with examining the highest points of the design, where wear appears first. Look for remaining luster, sharpness of details, and surface marks. The Sheldon scale runs from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect). For this series, the jump from Fine (F-12, worth ~$5,000) to Uncirculated (MS-63, worth ~$25,000) is significant. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC costs $20–$50 per coin and is recommended for coins that appear to be worth $100 or more. Our PDF guide ($2.99) includes a visual grading chart for this series.
▶Where is the best place to sell Draped Bust Dollars?
For common-date Draped Bust Dollars in circulated grades, local coin shops and eBay are practical options — expect 70–85% of retail value. For key dates or high-grade examples, Heritage Auctions or Stack's Bowers will reach the most serious buyers and typically achieve the strongest prices. PCGS or NGC certification is essential before consigning valuable coins to auction. For a detailed selling strategy, see our selling guide.
▶Are there error varieties of the Draped Bust Dollar?
Yes. Known Draped Bust Dollar errors include doubled die obverses and reverses, repunched mintmarks, off-center strikes, and die cracks. This series has notable varieties such as the 1799/8. Always examine coins under magnification to check for die doubling, especially on lettering and dates.
▶How can I tell if my Draped Bust Dollar is real?
Authentic Draped Bust Dollars weigh 26.96 grams and measure 39 mm in diameter. Check the weight with a precision scale (digital scales accurate to 0.01g are available for under $20). The coin should be composed of 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper. Counterfeit coins often fail the weight test, show seams on the edge, or have mushy design details. For valuable dates, always obtain PCGS or NGC authentication — the cost is minimal compared to the risk of buying or selling a counterfeit.
▶What affects the value of a Draped Bust Dollar the most?
The four biggest value drivers for Draped Bust Dollars are: (1) Grade — the difference between Good and Uncirculated is $22,500 for common dates; (2) Date and mintmark — key dates like 1804 Class I command large premiums; (3) Silver spot price — sets a floor value for circulated examples; (4) Eye appeal — original surfaces, attractive toning, and strong strikes increase desirability among collectors.
▶How many Draped Bust Dollars were made?
The Draped Bust Dollar was produced from 1795–1804. Mintage varied widely by year and mint — some dates had millions struck while key dates had far fewer. The scarce 1804 Class I is especially sought after. Check our full value table above for key dates and their relative scarcity.
▶Should I clean my Draped Bust Dollar?
Never clean a Draped Bust Dollar or any collectible coin. Cleaning removes the original surface and patina, which collectors prize — a cleaned coin can lose 50% or more of its value compared to an original, naturally toned example. Even coins that look "dirty" often have desirable original toning. If you must remove loose debris, hold the coin by its edges and gently rinse with distilled water. Our coin storage guide has more preservation tips.
▶Is the Draped Bust Dollar a good investment?
Draped Bust Dollars in key dates and high grades have historically appreciated well. Common dates in circulated grades are affordable entry points and carry intrinsic silver value as a floor. For investment purposes, focus on PCGS/NGC-certified examples in grades of Fine or better, and prioritize key dates with low mintages. Our PDF Quick Reference Guide ($2.99) covers all Draped Bust Dollar dates and values to help identify the best opportunities.