Several different coins are considered among the first American coins, each with unique historical significance and value:
- 1792 Birch Cent: These were pattern coins, meaning they were samples considered for official coinage but not widely circulated. There are four known variations of the 1792 Birch Cent:
– Lettered Edge with Stars: Valued at $250,000.
– Plain Edge: Valued at $600,000. One specific example of this type was valued at $4.2 million and another sold for $1.175 million in 2015.
– Lettered Edge, No Stars: Considered “Priceless”.
– White Metal: Also considered “Priceless”.
- 1792 Half Disme: Though debated whether they were pattern or circulating coins, these silver coins are widely considered the first United States coinage struck under the authority of the Coinage Act of 1792. Values vary greatly depending on condition:
– A specimen in Good (G) condition could be worth $150,000 – $250,000.
– A Very Fine (VF) specimen might range from $300,000 – $450,000.
– An Extremely Fine (EF/XF) example could be valued between $500,000 – $700,000.
– About Uncirculated (AU) Half Dismes are estimated to be worth $800,000 – $1,200,000.
– Mint State (MS) examples can reach over $1,000,000 – $1,500,000+.
– A specimen strike (SP-67) last sold for $1.4 million in 2013, and another sold for $1.145 million in 2013.
– An MS68 graded by NGC sold for $1.5 million in a private transaction in 2007.
- 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar: This was the first dollar coin officially released by the U.S. Mint. Values depend heavily on condition:
– In circulated condition, a 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar is worth between $70,000 and $975,000.
– Uncirculated examples can sell for as much as $7 million.
– A particularly well-preserved example, thought to have been potentially handled by George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and David Rittenhouse, sold for $10 million. Another example sold at auction for $6.6 million.
In conclusion, the value of early American coins like the Birch Cent, Half Disme, and Flowing Hair Dollar can be substantial, ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars depending on factors such as:
- Rarity: The fewer coins produced, the higher the potential value.
- Condition: Well-preserved coins with minimal wear are more desirable.
- Historical Significance: Coins tied to significant events or figures often fetch higher prices.
Potential buyers should exercise caution and ensure that any purported valuable coins are authenticated by a reputable third-party service like PCGS or NGC.
What was the first USA coin?
From my experience, The first authorization for the establishment of a mint in the United States was in a resolution of the Congress of the Confederation of February 21, 1782, and the first general-circulation coin of the United States, the Fugio cent, was produced in 1787 based on the Continental dollar.
Why is the 1794 dollar so rare?
From my experience, Limited Mintage
Only 1,758 coins were minted in 1794, making the Flowing Hair Silver Dollar one of the rarest coins in existence.
How much is an American 1 dollar coin worth?
Thanks for asking. US dollar coins represent one of the most diverse and misunderstood categories in American numismatics. While most modern dollar coins are worth only face value, certain series and dates can command significant premiums, with some historical silver dollars worth $40 or more in average condition.