Famous Coins 1804 U.S. Draped Bust Dollar

Famous Coins 1804 U.S. Draped Bust Dollar

Some coins are coveted not because of the history surrounding them but due to how much they sometimes sell for at auction or between private collectors. It has been recognized as the rarest coin in existence and there are only fifteen known copies in the world which exist to this day. One of these copies has fallen into the hands of the Smithsonian where it is on display to this day. Although few pictures of the originals exist, it is a remarkable coin worth seeing if you have the time to visit the Smithsonian.

The 1804 U.S. Draped Bust Dollar was recognized as the rarest coin in the world by the American Numismatics who found it to be the first of the rarest coins in the world which has also made it one of the most famous. It was designed by Robert Scot with the original first reverse having been designed by John Eckstein. The original was known as the “Flowing Hair Dollar” and remained this until 1795 when later was minted with a coat of arms.

Another fact that makes this coin so valuable is how 1804 was the last year that silver was used in the mintage. After it ceased, it was one of the final coins to ever been minted in silver. Many individuals who believed that silver were soon to become quite rare switched newly minted 1804 U.S. Draped Bust Dollars with Pillar Dollars before leaving with them. It is important to note that in recent years China has begun to print perfect copies of the coins from one of the originals and is claiming they are authentic. However, these are fake and it is necessary only purchase them from trusted dealers or individuals who have had the coins certified through the U.S. Treasury.