First minted in 1794 The Flowing Hair Dollar was the first dollar coin to be issued by the United States Government.
It was the result of a study done by Alexander Hamilton, who was Secretary of the Treasurer, that showed a need for a national mint. This plan was backed by none other than George Washington and the Coinage Act of 1972 was passed allowing for a national mint.
Although the Coinage Act of 1792 was passed through by Congress in 1792, it wasn’t until 1794 that this coin was released. It was designed by Robert Scot and was in production from 1794-1795 and was then replaced by the Draped Bust Dollar.
The Obverse of the coin features a depiction of Lady Liberty with long flowing hair, hence the name Flowing Hair Dollar. Lady Liberty is surrounded by 15 stars which represent the 15 states that had thus far ratified the constitution of this young country. The reverse has an eagle with its wings outstretched surrounded by a wreath.
Both the depiction of Liberty, and the eagle were required to be featured on the coin due to the Coinage Act of 1792.
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