1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar: Small Date – Small Letters

The 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is a historic coin that holds great significance in U.S. numismatic history. This coin is part of the early silver dollar series and is known for its unique design features, specifically the small date and small letters. For collectors, it is a sought-after piece due to its rarity and its importance in the early history of American currency.

In this article, we’ll dive into the history, design, and value of the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar with small date and small letters, providing insight into why it remains such a treasured collectible today.

History of the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar

The Draped Bust Silver Dollar series was produced from 1795 to 1804, and the 1796 version stands out as a unique year in the series. The design was created by Robert Scot, the first chief engraver of the U.S. Mint. The 1796 silver dollar was part of the early efforts of the United States to establish a stable national currency following the country’s independence.

The small date and small letters variety refers to the specific size of the date and lettering on the reverse of the coin, which distinguishes it from other varieties. The small date and letters on the 1796 dollar are slightly more compact than other coins in the series, making this variety especially valuable to collectors.

Design of the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar

Obverse (Front)

• Liberty’s Portrait: The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Liberty, facing right, with flowing hair. This design gives the coin its name, “Draped Bust,” as Liberty is depicted with a draped garment over her shoulder.
• Small Date: The year 1796 is displayed at the bottom of the coin in a smaller font size compared to other varieties.

Reverse (Back)

• Eagle Design: The reverse features an eagle with outstretched wings, surrounded by a wreath. This design is commonly known as the “Small Eagle” type.
• Small Letters: The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircles the eagle, and the letters are smaller compared to other coins in the series.

Table: Key Details of the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar

Feature	Description
Mint Year	1796
Designer	Robert Scot
Composition	89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
Diameter	39-40 mm
Weight	26.96 grams
Obverse Design	Draped Bust portrait of Liberty
Reverse Design	Small Eagle with wreath
Special Feature	Small date and small letters variety

Value of the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar

The 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is highly valued by collectors due to its rarity, age, and historical significance. Its value can vary greatly depending on its condition and grade. In average condition, this coin can fetch prices between $3,000 to $10,000. However, in excellent or uncirculated condition, the coin’s value can easily reach upwards of $50,000 or more.

Factors That Affect the Value:

1. Condition: Coins in better condition are always more valuable, especially if they have been well-preserved over the years.
2. Variety: The small date and small letters variety is less common and, therefore, more valuable than other varieties.
3. Historical Significance: Being a part of the early silver dollar series makes this coin an important piece for American history enthusiasts.

Why Collectors Treasure the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar

There are several reasons why the 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is a prized coin among collectors:

1. Early U.S. History: The coin represents a time when the U.S. was still in its early stages of nationhood and working to create a stable financial system.
2. Design Rarity: The small date and small letters variety is less common, making it more appealing to collectors.
3. Silver Content: The coin’s silver composition adds intrinsic value, aside from its collectible worth.

Conclusion

The 1796 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is an extraordinary piece of American history. With its small date and small letters variety, this coin is a significant find for collectors and historians alike. Its rarity, design, and place in early U.S. currency history make it one of the most sought-after coins. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of numismatics, this coin is sure to be a valuable addition to any collection.

Educalprogram.org

FAQ’s