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The 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is one of the earliest and most historically significant coins produced by the United States Mint, representing a pivotal moment in the young nation’s numismatic history. The coin was part of the first half-dollar series ever minted by the United States, and its design reflects the ideals of liberty and independence that were foundational to the country’s identity at the time. The Flowing Hair design, created by Mint Chief Engraver Robert Scot, was struck only in 1794 and 1795, making it a short-lived yet iconic issue. The 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar in Very Fine (VF) condition holds immense appeal for collectors due to its rarity, historical importance, and classic design.
The obverse of the 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar features a portrait of Liberty, facing to the right, with her flowing hair cascading behind her. This design symbolizes the freedom and vitality of the new nation. Surrounding Liberty are the thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies, arranged in a pattern around the edges of the coin. Above Liberty’s head is the inscription "LIBERTY," while the date "1795" is positioned below her portrait. In Very Fine condition, the obverse of the coin shows moderate wear from circulation, particularly on Liberty’s facial features and hair. However, the major design elements, including the stars, date, and inscription, remain clear and well-defined, making the coin a visually appealing piece even with its age and wear.
The reverse of the 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar features a small, spread-winged eagle surrounded by a wreath, a design that is simple yet elegant. Above the eagle, the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" is arranged in a circular pattern along the rim of the coin. The eagle, often seen as a symbol of strength and national pride, stands on a perch within the wreath. In Very Fine condition, the reverse shows wear on the eagle’s wings and body, as well as on the wreath’s finer details. However, the primary design elements, including the eagle’s outline and the surrounding inscription, remain visible and distinguishable, making the coin a prized collectible even after years of circulation.
The 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar was minted in the early years of the United States Mint, which had only been established in 1792. The half-dollar was introduced as part of the country's first efforts to produce its own coinage, following the Coinage Act of 1792. Prior to this, the U.S. relied heavily on foreign coins for everyday transactions. The Flowing Hair design was used for the first U.S. silver coins, which included the half dollar and the dollar. The design is significant because it reflects the nation’s early attempts to establish a cohesive identity through its currency, with Liberty being a central figure representing the country's core values of freedom and independence.
The mintage of the 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is estimated to be around 299,680 coins. Although this number might seem large by 18th-century standards, many of these coins were heavily circulated, melted down, or lost over time, leaving only a fraction available to collectors today. This scarcity adds to the appeal of the 1795 half dollar, making it a highly sought-after piece among numismatists. The coin’s relatively short production period (1794-1795) also contributes to its rarity, as the design was quickly replaced by the Draped Bust motif in late 1795. Collectors prize the Flowing Hair Half Dollar for its rarity, its historical significance, and its role as a cornerstone of early American coinage.
The 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is struck in 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, giving it a silver content that was standard for U.S. coins at the time. The coin has a diameter of approximately 32.5 mm and weighs 13.48 grams. Its size and silver content made it a valuable coin for trade and commerce in the early days of the United States. In today’s numismatic market, the 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is highly regarded not only for its precious metal content but also for its rarity and historical importance. Its value to collectors goes far beyond its silver content, as it represents a piece of the nation’s formative years and its efforts to establish a distinct national identity through its currency.
Coins like the 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar are cherished by collectors because they tell the story of a nation in its infancy, grappling with the challenges of establishing its own financial system. The Flowing Hair design, with its classical representation of Liberty and the fledgling nation’s first attempts at minting silver coins, embodies the spirit of independence and innovation that defined the era. In Very Fine condition, this coin retains enough detail to showcase the artistry and symbolism that went into its creation, while also reflecting its journey through the hands of early Americans. Owning a 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar is not just about acquiring a piece of silver—it is about holding a tangible link to the early history of the United States.