8 Valuable Flowing Hair Half Dollars – The Flowing Hair Half Dollar, introduced in 1794, is a treasured cornerstone of early American coinage. As the first silver half dollar ever minted by the United States, it symbolizes the fledgling nation’s resolve to create an independent and stable currency. Designed by Robert Scot, this iconic coin features Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse and an eagle encircled by a wreath on the reverse, embodying the ideals of freedom and strength.
Although it was produced for only two years (1794-1795), its rarity and historical significance have made certain specimens of the Flowing Hair Half Dollar highly coveted by collectors. Some of these coins have achieved astronomical prices at auctions, offering a glimpse into the legacy of early U.S. numismatics.
Here are eight Flowing Hair Half Dollars that captured the spotlight and brought in fortunes, each with its own unique story and appeal:
Table of Contents
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
Minted in the very first year of the series, the 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar carries immense historical importance. With a mintage of just over 23,000, surviving examples are rare and highly sought after.
One exceptional specimen, graded MS-64, achieved a staggering $1.5 million at auction. Its sharp strike, glowing luster, and rich toning make it a crown jewel for numismatists and a testament to the ambition of the young United States.
Also Read: 7 Expensive Flowing Hair Dollars That Brought Big Money
2. 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
Among the 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollars, the O-101 variety stands out due to its unique die alignment and design features. This variety’s rarity is underscored by the fact that fewer than 100 examples are believed to exist today.
A stunning AU-55 example was sold for $1.2 million in 2023, with its originality and distinct appeal making it a key rarity in the series.
3. 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
The Overton-111 variety of the 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is notable for its detailed design and exceptional preservation. While not the rarest, its quality places it among the most admired in the series.
A specimen graded MS-65 fetched $1.4 million at auction, impressing collectors with its flawless surfaces and vibrant toning, a true showcase of early American minting expertise.
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
Not every Flowing Hair Half Dollar retains its original luster, yet even circulated examples hold immense value. A 1794 coin graded VF-30, showing wear from use in early American commerce, serves as a tangible link to history.
This piece sold for $950,000, reminding us that a coin’s story can outweigh its condition in numismatic circles.
5. 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
Certain 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollars exhibit proof-like qualities, hinting that they were specially struck as presentation pieces for dignitaries. These coins are a rarity even within an already rare series.
An MS-64+ example with mirror-like fields commanded $1.3 million at auction, captivating collectors with its exceptional detail and visual appeal.
6. 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is seldom found in high grades due to the circulation it experienced during its time. A well-preserved MS-63 example, however, defies the odds.
This remarkable coin sold for $1.1 million, proving that even slightly lower-grade specimens can achieve significant recognition when rarity and detail align.
7. 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
Coins graded AU-58 represent the pinnacle of near-perfect preservation without achieving an uncirculated grade. A 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar in this grade is a rarity that appeals to those seeking near-gem pieces.
A stunning example brought $1.25 million at auction, showcasing pristine surfaces and a beautiful patina that transports collectors back to the coin’s origins.
Also Read: 9 Valuable Gold Dollars That Fetched a Fortune
8. 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar
Specimen strikes of the 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar are among the rarest coins in the world, believed to have been struck with specially prepared dies and planchets for presentation purposes.
An SP-65 example achieved an astonishing $2.5 million at auction, making it one of the most valuable Flowing Hair Half Dollars ever sold. Its unparalleled strike and original luster mark it as a true numismatic masterpiece.
Final Thoughts
The Flowing Hair Half Dollar is more than a coin—it is a piece of history, a symbol of a nation’s early ambitions, and a testament to the craftsmanship of early American minting. For collectors, these coins offer more than material value; they provide a tangible connection to the past and an enduring sense of wonder. Whether pristine or worn, these numismatic treasures continue to inspire awe and admiration, making them timeless icons in the world of rare coins.
