1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar. O-105, T-25. Rarity-3+. Two Leaves. AU-55 (PCGS). CAC.

1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar. O-105, T-25. Rarity-3+. Two Leaves. AU-55 (PCGS). CAC.，This is a lovely half dollar with brilliant centers that give way to iridescent reddish-gold toning at the borders. Smooth and satiny (uncommon for a lightly circulated Flowing Hair half dollar), with plenty of original luster. The strike is nicely centered and well executed on both sides with bold to sharp detail throughout the design. Of premium quality for the assigned grade, the current example is nicer than several low end Mint State Flowing Hair half dollars that we have handled over the years and is sure to find its way into an advanced type or variety set.<p>While today the half dollar is seldom seen in circulation and offering one up in change will often generate odd looks and questions, it is only relatively recently that this has been the case. Half dollars have traditionally been "workhorse coins intended for use in the channels of commerce," as Q. David Bowers described them. The reduction in the required surety bonds for the chief coiner and the assayer so that production of precious metal coins could commence came too late in 1794 to make a huge impact on the nations circulating coins during that year. However, beginning in 1795 production was sharply stepped up. Just under 300,000 half dollars were struck in 1795 from at least 32 identified die pairings, more than 10 times that of the 1794 issue. This was a portent of things to come, for the half dollar would remain the denomination of choice among contemporary silver bullion depositors well into the 19th century. Consequently, yearly mintages for these coins were usually far in excess of those for the half dime, dime and quarter (silver dollar coinage having been suspended in 1804 on the order of President Thomas Jefferson).<p>With its higher mintage and greater availability in todays market, the 1795 has long been the issue of choice for collectors seeking an example of the Flowing Hair half dollar. Overton-105 is one of the more obtainable varieties of this issue, the Condition Census comprised of a small number of Mint State coins. The present Choice AU example is just below that level and is still scarce. With its superior preservation and eye appeal this example is sure to sell for a strong bid.，From the A.J. Vanderbilt Collection. Earlier from our (Stacks) sale of the Robert A. Arnel Collection, January 1967, lot 64. Lot tag included.，