When silver coins made their introduction into United States Currency, the half dollar was one of the three denominations introduced. (The half dime and silver dollar being the other two.)
The Flowing Hair Half Dollar was introduced in 1794, sharing its design with the half dime and dollar coin of the same period. Composed of 89.2% silver, and 10.8% copper, the coin was designed by Robert Scot. The obverse features the head of Lady Liberty facing right, her hair flowing behind her. The word "LIBERTY" appears along the top, with the year at the bottom. A total of fifteen 6-ponted stars are displayed, with seven on the right side and eight on the left. The coin's reverse depicts an eagle with its wings outstretched, encircled by olive branches. "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" surrounds nearly the entire reverse side. The edge of the coin, instead of reeding, says "FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR."
The design was retired in 1795.
United States Coinage