1797 Draped Bust Dollar Value Guide

The 1797 Draped Bust Dollar is a cornerstone of early American numismatics, representing one of the first silver denominations issued by the U.S. federal government. This specific year is highly collectible due to its low survival rate and the iconic Lady Liberty design inspired by artist Gilbert Stuart.

What affects the value of 1797 Draped Bust Dollar?

• The overall grade and preservation of the coin, with values typically ranging from $2,000 to $2,400 for circulated examples.
• The specific variety, such as the number of stars on the obverse (9 left, 7 right or 10 left, 6 right).
• Surface quality, including the presence of original luster or the absence of harsh cleaning and scratches.
• The clarity of the strike, particularly on the hair strands of Liberty and the feathers of the eagle.

How to Identify 1797 Draped Bust Dollar?

• Verify the obverse features Lady Liberty with flowing hair and a distinct drapery over her bust.
• Check for the 1797 date at the bottom of the obverse, ensuring the font style matches late 18th-century minting.
• Examine the reverse for the 'Small Eagle' or 'Large Eagle' heraldic design typical of the 1795-1804 series.
• Confirm the material is silver and the coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, as no mint marks were used.

History of 1797 Draped Bust Dollar

The Draped Bust dollar was minted from 1795 to 1804. Its design, attributed to Robert Scot, features a depiction of Lady Liberty with flowing hair and a drapery over her bust, inspired by a drawing by Gilbert Stuart. These early U.S. silver dollars are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance as some of the first coinage issued by the United States federal government. The 1797 issue is particularly notable as it falls within the early years of this series, making original examples rare.