1795 $1 Flowing Hair Dollar ICG F12 Details B-10

Coin Overview:

• Year: 1795
• Denomination: $1
• Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark, as it was the only U.S. Mint at the time).
• Composition: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
• Weight: 26.96 grams
• Diameter: 39-40 mm
• Designer: Robert Scot

Design Details:

1. Obverse (Front):
   • Features Liberty with flowing hair, facing right.
   • “LIBERTY” is inscribed above, with stars arranged around the portrait (15 stars for the states in the Union at the time).
   • The date 1795 is displayed below Liberty.
2. Reverse (Back):
   • Depicts an eagle with outstretched wings surrounded by a laurel wreath.
   • The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircle the design.
   • The “Two Leaves” variety refers to the number of leaves beneath each wing of the eagle in the wreath, as opposed to the “Three Leaves” variety.

Die Variety:

• B-10 (Bolender-10):
  • This variety is one of the recognized die marriages for the 1795 Flowing Hair Dollar, as cataloged by Bolender.
  • Two Leaves: Identified by two leaves below each wing of the eagle on the reverse, differentiating it from the “Three Leaves” variety.
  • The B-10 Two Leaves variety is relatively scarce compared to other die marriages of the 1795 dollar, adding to its collectibility.

Condition and Grading:

• Grade: ICG F12 Details
  • F12 (Fine) indicates moderate wear, with most major design elements visible but lacking finer details.
  • Legends, date, and key design features are clear but softened from circulation.
• Details Grade:
  • Assigned due to damage and scratches, which negatively affect the coin’s overall visual appeal and market value.

Damage and Scratches:

• Damage: May include gouges, dings, or environmental corrosion.
• Scratches: Likely from mishandling or improper cleaning. These detract from the coin’s natural surfaces and patina.

Historical Context:

• The 1795 Flowing Hair Dollar was the first official U.S. silver dollar and was modeled on the Spanish dollar, which was widely used in global trade.
• The coin’s production marked a significant milestone in the establishment of the U.S. Mint and American coinage.
• The Flowing Hair design was only minted in 1794 and part of 1795, making it a short-lived and iconic series.

Rarity and Survival:

• Total Mintage: Approximately 160,295 coins were minted in 1795 with the Flowing Hair design.
• Survival Rate: Fewer than 10% are estimated to have survived due to melting, loss, or wear.
• Two Leaves Variety: While not as rare as some other die marriages, it is scarcer than the “Three Leaves” variety, making it more desirable for variety collectors.

Market Value:

• Problem-Free F12 Value: A problem-free 1795 Flowing Hair Dollar in F12 typically commands $10,000–$12,000, depending on demand and eye appeal.
• Details Grade Value:
  • With damage and scratches, the value decreases significantly.
  • An ICG F12 Details (B-10, Two Leaves) example would likely sell for $5,000–$8,000, depending on the severity of the flaws and the overall eye appeal.

Collector Appeal:

1. First U.S. Silver Dollar:
   • As the first silver dollar issued by the U.S. Mint, the 1795 Flowing Hair Dollar holds immense historical significance.
2. Scarcity:
   • Even with damage and cleaning, this coin is desirable due to its age, rarity, and the “Two Leaves” variety.
3. Die Varieties:
   • Collectors specializing in early U.S. coinage often pursue specific die marriages, and the B-10 is a recognized and sought-after variety.