In April 2025, the numismatic world was abuzz with excitement over the discovery of a rare 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar found in a Rhode Island basement.
This coin, one of the earliest silver dollars minted by the United States, is valued at over $100,000 and is set to be auctioned by Great Collections on December 15, 2025.
A Glimpse into History: The 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar holds significant historical value as it represents the early efforts of the United States Mint to establish a national currency.
Designed by Robert Scot, the coin features Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse and an eagle surrounded by a wreath on the reverse. This design was short-lived, making the coin a rare collector’s item.
Details of the Discovery
The coin was discovered in a Rhode Island estate, having been passed down through seven generations of a family who were unaware of its value.
Stored in an old shoebox, the coin remained in excellent condition, graded as AU-58 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and approved by the Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC).
Unique Features: The Silver Plug
One of the most intriguing aspects of this coin is the presence of a silver plug. In the early days of the U.S. Mint, underweight planchets (coin blanks) were adjusted by inserting a silver plug to meet the standard weight.
This practice was short-lived, making such coins exceedingly rare. Only about 100 silver plug 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollars are known to exist, with this particular coin being among the finest known examples.
Market Value and Auction Details
The coin’s rarity and condition have led to an estimated value exceeding $100,000. It is scheduled to be auctioned by Great Collections on December 15, 2025.
Collectors and investors alike are eagerly anticipating the auction, given the coin’s historical significance and scarcity.
1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar Varieties
| Variety | Features | Estimated Value Range | Notable Sales |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Leaves | Standard design | $2,300 – $806,500 | |
| 3 Leaves | Slight design variation | $2,750 – $1,080,000 | |
| Silver Plug | Weight-adjusted with silver plug | $3,750 – $864,000 | $705,000 (PCGS MS65+) |
The discovery of the 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar in a Rhode Island basement is a remarkable event in the world of numismatics. Its historical significance, rarity, and unique features like the silver plug make it a treasure for collectors and historians alike.
As it heads to auction, this coin serves as a tangible link to the early days of the United States and a testament to the enduring value of preserving history.
FAQs
What makes the 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar so valuable?
Its value stems from its historical significance as one of the first silver dollars minted by the U.S., its rarity, especially in high grades, and unique features like the silver plug.
How many 1795 Flowing Hair Silver Dollars with silver plugs are known to exist?
Approximately 100 such coins are known, making them extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Where can I learn more about the upcoming auction?
Details about the auction can be found on the Great Collections website, where the coin is scheduled to be auctioned on December 15, 2025.