The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is one of the most iconic and valuable early U.S. coins. With auction records exceeding $172,500, this rare transitional coin is considered the crown jewel of small cents. If you ever come across one, you’re holding a piece of numismatic history.
📜 Why the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent Is So Special
The Flying Eagle design was only struck between 1856 and 1858, making it one of the shortest-lived U.S. coin series. The 1856 issue, however, was never intended for circulation. Instead, it was struck in small quantities as a pattern coin to demonstrate the new “small cent” design.
✨ Key Features of the 1856 Flying Eagle Penny
- Obverse: Flying Eagle motif, with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the date 1856.
- Reverse: Wreath surrounding the denomination “ONE CENT” (no shield, which appeared later).
- Size & Specs:
- Diameter: 19mm (smaller than earlier large cents)
- Weight: 4.70g
- Metal: 88% copper, 12% nickel
- Edge: Plain
💎 Value Breakdown – 2024 Market Prices
| Grade | PCGS Certified Value | Auction Record |
|---|---|---|
| MS-65 | $150,000–$200,000 | $172,500 |
| MS-63 | $90,000–$130,000 | $112,000 |
| AU-58 | $50,000–$75,000 | $68,400 |
📊 Estimated surviving population: only 125–150 coins exist in all grades.
🔍 5-Step Authentication Guide
Want to know if your Flying Eagle is the real deal? Here’s how experts check:
1️⃣ Magnification (10x–30x) – Inspect eagle feather details & die cracks.
2️⃣ Weight & Diameter – Must be 4.67–4.70g and exactly 19mm.
3️⃣ Metal Composition – XRF test should confirm copper-nickel alloy.
4️⃣ Die Variety Study – Compare to known 1856 die pairs for alignment accuracy.
5️⃣ Surface Analysis – Look for natural mint luster and toning.
🚀 Why Collectors Pay $172K+
✔️ First small cent in U.S. history
✔️ Rare one-year pattern issue
✔️ Historic copper-nickel composition
✔️ Beloved by museum curators & elite collectors
✔️ Auction demand constantly rising
🏆 Best Places to Sell
- World-Class Auctions: Heritage “Platinum Night,” Stack’s Bowers “Rarities Night”
- Private Collectors: Our network of type coin specialists
- Institutional Buyers: Museums, including potential Smithsonian acquisition
⚠️ Important Warning: Many electrotype fakes exist. Only trust coins certified by PCGS or NGC.
🆓 Free Evaluation Offer
Submit:
📸 High-resolution photos (front, back, and edge)
⚖️ Precise weight measurements
🎁 Free with submission:
- “Million-Dollar Pennies” guide
- Current type coin market report
💬 “We’re actively seeking high-grade Flying Eagles for top clients.” — Elizabeth W., Early Copper Specialist
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