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 →