The 1799 Draped Bust Dollar is a highly valued and historic U.S. coin that collectors admire for its beauty, rarity, and significance in early American coinage. This particular coin, known as the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar with the “Normal Date” and “8×5 Stars Obverse,” has become a prized piece among coin collectors. Let’s explore its unique features, history, and why it’s so sought after.
History of the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar
The Draped Bust Dollar was minted from 1795 to 1804 and is one of the earliest silver dollars produced by the U.S. Mint. The 1799 version is part of this series, designed by Robert Scot. The obverse (front) of the coin features Lady Liberty with flowing hair, draped in a robe, while the reverse (back) shows an eagle surrounded by a wreath.
The specific coin we’re discussing, the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar with the 8×5 Stars Obverse, is named for the arrangement of the stars on the obverse. Instead of the typical 6 stars on the left and 7 on the right, this coin has 8 stars on the left and 5 on the right. This unique star arrangement makes this coin stand out to collectors.
Design Features
Obverse (Front) Design
- Lady Liberty: The obverse shows a bust of Lady Liberty facing right, with her hair flowing freely. She is wearing a draped gown, giving the coin its name, “Draped Bust.”
- Star Arrangement: This variant of the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar has 8 stars to the left of Liberty and 5 stars to the right, known as the 8×5 stars obverse design.
- Date: The bottom of the coin shows the date “1799,” marking the year of minting.
Reverse (Back) Design
- Eagle: The reverse features an eagle with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and strength.
- Wreath: Surrounding the eagle is a wreath, which adds elegance to the design.
- United States of America: The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” are inscribed around the top of the coin.
Rarity and Value
The 1799 Draped Bust Dollar with the Normal Date and 8×5 Stars Obverse is considered a rare coin due to its unique star arrangement and its age. Collectors value these coins for their historical significance, beauty, and scarcity. Prices for this coin can range from several thousand dollars to over $100,000, depending on its condition.
Factors Affecting Value:
- Condition: The better the condition (or grade) of the coin, the higher its value. Coins that have been well-preserved or uncirculated fetch the highest prices.
- Mint Errors: Coins with minting errors, such as a misaligned die or double strike, can also increase the value.
- Provenance: If the coin has a documented history of previous owners or was part of a notable collection, this can increase its value as well.
Collecting the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar
Coin collectors often seek out the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar because it’s one of the earliest and most iconic silver dollars. Owning this coin offers a glimpse into the early days of the U.S. Mint and American history.
For collectors, it’s essential to ensure the coin’s authenticity and condition. Many counterfeit versions exist, so it’s crucial to purchase from reputable dealers and have the coin authenticated by professional grading services such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
Table of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1799 |
| Design | Draped Bust (Obverse), Eagle (Reverse) |
| Star Arrangement | 8 stars on the left, 5 stars on the right |
| Material | Silver |
| Diameter | 39-40 mm |
| Designer | Robert Scot |
| Minted From | 1795-1804 |
| Rarity | High, especially in good condition |
| Value Range | $5,000 to over $100,000 |
Conclusion
The 1799 Draped Bust Dollar with the 8×5 Stars Obverse is a rare and valuable piece of American history. Its unique design and scarcity make it highly desirable to coin collectors. If you’re lucky enough to own one, or are looking to add one to your collection, be sure to verify its authenticity and take good care of this prized possession. As the coin continues to age, its historical significance and value will likely continue to increase.
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FAQs
1. What makes the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar unique?
The unique 8×5 star arrangement on the obverse and its rarity make it a standout among early U.S. coins.
2. How much is a 1799 Draped Bust Dollar worth?
Depending on its condition, the value can range from $5,000 to over $100,000.
3. Where can I buy a 1799 Draped Bust Dollar?
You can find these coins at reputable coin dealers, auctions, or online platforms specializing in rare coins.
4. How can I tell if my 1799 Draped Bust Dollar is authentic?
It’s recommended to have the coin authenticated by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC to ensure it’s genuine.
5. Why is the star arrangement on the obverse important?
The 8×5 stars arrangement is a rare design variation, making it a key feature that increases the coin’s rarity and desirability among collectors.