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Flowing Hair Dollar Value

1794–1795 · $1 · 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper

Value by Grade

GradeEst. Value
Poor (P-1)$25,000
Good (G-4)$50,000
Fine (F-12)$150,000
Uncirculated (MS-63)$500,000
Gem (MS-65)$1,500,000
Perfect (MS-70)$7,500,000

Key Dates & Rare Varieties

Date/VarietyWhy It's SpecialValue Range
1794First US silver dollar — only ~130 survive in all grades$50,000–$10,000,000
1795 Two LeavesScarcer reverse variety with two leaves under wings$2,000–$50,000
1795 Three LeavesMore common variety but still rare$1,500–$40,000

Coin Specifications

Designer
Robert Scot
Years
1794–1795
Denomination
$1
Composition
89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
Diameter
39 mm
Weight
26.96 g

Quick Value

$150,000
Average circulated (Fine grade)

Flowing Hair Dollar: History & Background

The Flowing Hair Dollar was the first dollar coin issued by the United States federal government, with production beginning in October 1794. Only 1,758 were struck in that first year, and perhaps only 120–130 survive today. A specimen graded SP66 sold at auction in 2013 for over $10 million, making it the most expensive coin ever sold at the time. The obverse shows Liberty with flowing hair surrounded by stars, while the reverse depicts a small eagle within a wreath. The design was replaced by the Draped Bust type in 1795 after only two years of production.

How to Grade a Flowing Hair 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 →

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