1804 Class I Draped Bust Silver Dollar $1

The 1804 Class I Draped Bust Silver Dollar $1 is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American numismatics. Despite its name, it was not actually minted in 1804 but rather in the 1830s as part of a diplomatic mission to present U.S. coins as gifts to foreign dignitaries. 

The Draped Bust design, created by engraver Robert Scot, features Lady Liberty facing right on the obverse, wearing a flowing gown and a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom and liberty.  

The words "LIBERTY" and "1804" appear on either side of her, with thirteen stars representing the original thirteen colonies. 

On the reverse side, an eagle is depicted with outstretched wings, holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons, symbolizing peace and strength. The eagle is encircled by a wreath, and the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR" are featured around the periphery. 

The Class I designation distinguishes these coins as the first type of 1804 Silver Dollars struck in the 1830s. Only eight Class I specimens are known to exist, making them exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors. 

Due to their rarity and historical significance, 1804 Class I Draped Bust Silver Dollars have fetched record prices at auction, often reaching millions of dollars. They are considered the "King of American Coins" and hold a special place in the annals of numismatic history. 

The story of the 1804 Class I Draped Bust Silver Dollar $1 is steeped in intrigue and romance, fitting for a coin that has captured the imagination of collectors for centuries. Despite being minted nearly three decades after its supposed date, the 1804 Silver Dollar holds a place of honor among the most coveted coins in numismatic lore. 

The circumstances surrounding the production of the Class I 1804 Silver Dollars are as fascinating as they are mysterious. In the early 1830s, Mint Director Samuel Moore and Chief Coiner Adam Eckfeldt reportedly struck a small number of 1804-dated Silver Dollars using original dies as part of a diplomatic presentation set.  

However, the plan to create these presentation sets was not without its complications. The dies used to strike the coins were nearly three decades old and were originally intended for circulation in the early 19th century.  

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