1795. Centered bust. B-15, BB-52. Rarity 2. NGC graded EF-45. Even grey toning on both sides. Very attractive surfaces with natural highlights, the toning is deepest in the fields and then yields to more typical "rubbed silver" light gray color on the cheek, shoulder, and reverse high points. Nearly full curls and other head details on Liberty. A die break in the hair is noted on all seen from this obverse die. A truly pleasing specimen of a fashionable transition coin.
Late in the year 1795 the Draped Bust obverse with Small Eagle reverse was adopted for silver dollar coinage. Artist Gilbert Stuart, contemplating the Flowing Hair motif, remarked in 1795 that "Liberty on the other coins had run mad. We will bind it up and thus render her a steady matron." Accordingly, Stuart created what we know today as the Draped Bust obverse motif.
The new design depicted the draped bosom of Miss Liberty facing right, the word LIBERTY above, the date below, and stars to left and right, on the obverse. The reverse showed an eagle perched on a cloud within a wreath composed of an olive branch to the left and palm leaves to the right, tied with a bow at the bottom. The inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds, with particularly wide spacing between the words. Just two die varieties are known for the 1795 year: BB-51 and BB-52. Each is easy to find.
This style was continued through early 1798 and is similar to that used on half dimes and dimes of 1796 and 1797, quarters of 1796, and half dollars of 1796 and 1797.
Pop 6; 10 finer for the variety. Estimated Value $8,000 - 8,500
Draped Bust Dollars
