The $10 Million Dollar: When Did Your Dollar Series Begin?
From 1794 to Today: The Dollar Coin's Journey
A 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar sold for $10 million in 2013 — making it one of the most valuable coins in the world. It was arguably the first silver dollar struck by the United States, one of just 1,758 produced on October 15, 1794. That coin represents the very beginning of the American dollar.
The dollar's journey since then reads like a history of America itself. The Draped Bust Dollar includes the famous 1804 "King of American Coins" — actually struck decades later as diplomatic gifts, with only 15 examples known. Christian Gobrecht's 1836-1839 dollars introduced the Seated Liberty motif with a stunning flying eagle reverse. The Eisenhower Dollar commemorated both a president and the Apollo 11 moon landing.
The dollar's modern era has been marked by repeated attempts to get the public to use a small dollar coin. The Susan B. Anthony (1979-1981, 1999) was rejected for its quarter-like size. The Sacagawea Dollar fared slightly better. Presidential and Innovation Dollars have become collector-only issues.
Discussion
- What dollar series do you collect? Early silver, Morgan/Peace, or modern programs?
- Is the Eisenhower Dollar underappreciated?
- Will the U.S. ever successfully transition to a dollar coin for everyday use?
- What's the most historically significant dollar coin in your collection?