These 8 Draped Bust Dollars – The Draped Bust Dollar (1795-1804) stands as one of the most coveted treasures in American numismatics. These historic silver coins, featuring Robert Scot’s elegant Liberty design, represent the young nation’s first attempts at creating a circulating dollar coin. With vanishingly low mintages and extraordinary rarity, these coins regularly sell for six and seven figures at auction.
For collectors and investors alike, these eight legendary Draped Bust Dollars represent life-changing opportunities. Let’s examine these numismatic masterpieces that have made headlines with their record-breaking sales.
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1. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
While technically not part of the Draped Bust series, the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar deserves mention as it paved the way for the Draped Bust design. With a mintage of just 1,758 coins, it is one of the rarest and most sought-after coins in existence. In fact, a specimen graded SP-66 sold for $10 million in 2013, making it the most expensive coin ever sold.
The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar represents the birth of U.S. silver dollar coinage and serves as a bridge to the Draped Bust era. Its rarity and historical significance continue to captivate collectors worldwide.
Also Read: 10 Rare Draped Bust Half Dollars Worth a Fortune
2. 1795 Draped Bust Dollar
The 1795 Draped Bust Dollar with the Small Eagle reverse marks the debut of the Draped Bust design. With a mintage of approximately 42,000 coins, it is relatively common compared to later issues, but high-grade examples remain exceedingly rare.
A stunning MS-66 example fetched $1.2 million at auction in 2023. Its sharp strike, lustrous surfaces, and vibrant toning ensure its status as a cornerstone of any serious collection. This coin symbolizes the transition from the Flowing Hair design to the more refined Draped Bust motif.
3. 1796 Draped Bust Dollar
The 1796 Draped Bust Dollar is widely regarded as one of the key dates in the series. With a mintage of just 7,776 coins, it is significantly scarcer than many other issues. Most surviving examples show signs of heavy circulation, making high-grade specimens especially valuable.
A remarkable AU-55 example brought $850,000 at auction in 2022. Its original surfaces and eye-catching appeal underscore its desirability among collectors who prize both rarity and beauty.
4. 1797 Draped Bust Dollar
The 1797 Draped Bust Dollar with the 15 Stars reverse is another standout issue in the series. This variety features 15 stars on the reverse instead of the usual 13, representing the number of states in the Union at the time. Only a handful of examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest and most valuable Draped Bust Dollars.
An extraordinary AU-50 example sold for $1.5 million in 2023. Its rarity, coupled with its historical context during John Adams’ presidency, ensures its place as a highly sought-after collectible.
5. 1798 Draped Bust Dollar
The 1798 Draped Bust Dollar with the Heraldic Eagle reverse marks the introduction of this iconic design. With a mintage of approximately 34,000 coins, it is relatively scarce, particularly in high grades. Many examples exhibit weak strikes or surface imperfections, making fully struck specimens especially valuable.
A stunning MS-65 example fetched $950,000 at auction in 2022. Its sharp details and original luster set it apart as one of the finest known specimens, appealing to collectors who value exceptional quality.
6. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar
No discussion of Draped Bust Dollars would be complete without mentioning the legendary 1804 Draped Bust Dollar. Despite its name, none of these coins were actually struck in 1804; they were produced decades later as diplomatic gifts or presentation pieces. Only 15 examples are known to exist, divided into three classes based on their striking characteristics.
A Class I example sold for $4.14 million in 2021, cementing its status as the “King of Coins.” Its extreme rarity and historical intrigue make it the ultimate prize for collectors seeking the pinnacle of numismatic achievement.
Also Read: 9 Valuable Draped Bust Quarters Worth Big Money
7. 1802 Draped Bust Dollar
The 1802 Draped Bust Dollar is notable for being a condition rarity. While not as scarce as other dates in the series, it is exceedingly rare in high grades. Most surviving examples show significant wear, making gem-quality specimens especially valuable.
An extraordinary MS-64+ specimen sold for $800,000 in 2023. Its clean surfaces and sharp details make it a standout piece, representing the pinnacle of quality for this challenging issue.
8. 1803 Draped Bust Dollar
Though slightly more common than other dates in the series, the 1803 Draped Bust Dollar remains elusive in high grades. With a mintage of roughly 41,000 coins, most survivors show signs of heavy circulation, leaving few in pristine condition.
A remarkable MS-65 example fetched $750,000 at auction in 2022. Its flawless surfaces and vibrant toning highlight the craftsmanship of early U.S. minters, making it a centerpiece of advanced collections.
These eight legendary coins prove that life-changing discoveries are still possible in numismatics. Whether you’re a serious collector or casual enthusiast, the hunt for these treasures continues to captivate the imagination.
