Description
Offered here is a 1795 $1 Flowing Hair Dollar, the iconic first-year silver dollar type that marks the beginning of federal dollar coinage in the United States. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint and certified by PCGS as AU50, this desirable “3 Leaves” variety represents an essential early-American issue with strong collector demand, historical significance, and lasting investment appeal. Historical significance and collector context The Flowing Hair dollar is a foundational U.S. rarity, embodying the nation’s earliest efforts to establish a circulating silver dollar standard. The 1795-dated dollars are especially sought after for their role in the formative years of the Mint and for their classic early design style. The “3 Leaves” attribution further enhances variety interest, appealing to specialists who pursue distinct die characteristics within the 1795 dollar series. Condition and eye appeal Graded AU50, this coin offers the look and character that collectors often seek in early silver: honest, even wear with strong remaining detail in the devices and legends. Expect attractive natural silver-gray toning with potential deeper slate highlights in protected areas, along with traces of warmer champagne-gold or pale amber hues that frequently appear on early dollars. Overall, the surfaces present the vintage patina and presence that make a problem-free early dollar so compelling in hand. Rarity and market positioning Population data (PCGS): 51 graded in AU50, with 169 examples graded higher. This places the coin in a recognized collectible grade tier that balances affordability with scarcity relative to the broader market for early dollars. Notable auction reference For perspective on the upper end of the market, the finest known example of the 1795 Flowing Hair Dollar was sold in a Catherine Bullowa auction in December 2005 for $1,265,000. It was described in that sale as “very choice to gem unc” and was subsequently graded MS66 by PCGS. Key details Date/Denomination: 1795 $1 Type: Flowing Hair Dollar Mint: Philadelphia Variety: 3 Leaves Grade: PCGS AU50 PCGS Certification Number: 83808965 Population (PCGS): 51 in AU50; 169 higher A 1795 Flowing Hair Dollar is more than a coin—it is an early national artifact. This AU50 “3 Leaves” example is a strong choice for collectors building a type set, an early dollar set, or a historically focused U.S. cabinet.