Rare 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar Sells for $4.2 Million

A 1794 Flowing Hair dollar sold for $4.2 million at auction last night, becoming the third-highest price ever paid for a US coin. The specimen graded PCGS MS-66 CAC with exceptional eye appeal.

The coin came from a private collection assembled over 40 years. Bidding opened at $2 million and quickly escalated as phone bidders competed.

Historical Significance

The 1794 Flowing Hair dollar was the first silver dollar struck by the United States Mint. Fewer than 150 examples survive in all grades. Mint state specimens are extraordinarily rare.

This particular coin shows sharp design details and minimal contact marks. The toning developed naturally over two centuries, adding visual appeal. The buyer was not disclosed, but the auction house described them as a serious collector of early American coinage.