Looking for one of the most legendary early U.S. cents? The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent isn’t just another old coin—it’s a historical experiment that later became one of the most desirable rarities in American numismatics.

Today, high-grade authenticated examples have sold for $172,500+, and collectors worldwide compete to own one.

Let’s break it down step by step so you can easily understand what makes this coin so special—and how to quickly spot one yourself. 👇

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🦅 1. What Makes the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent So Valuable?

This coin is considered a “semi-pattern”—meaning it was originally made as a test piece before mass production.

✔️ Why It’s So Rare

• Only 1,000–3,000 coins were struck
• Many were gifts to officials or distributed to members of Congress
• It came before the regular Flying Eagle cents of 1857–1858
• It marked the first transition from large copper cents to small copper-nickel cents

This combination of low mintage + historic importance is why the 1856 edition is extremely valuable.

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🔍 2. How to Identify an 1856 Flying Eagle Cent (Step-by-Step)

Use these steps to compare your coin:

🪙 Obverse (Front)

• A large eagle flying left with wings spread
• “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” above
• Date: 1856 (the most important detail)
• Sharply detailed feathers and beak

🪙 Reverse (Back)

• “ONE CENT” centered
• Surrounded by a wreath of wheat, corn, cotton & tobacco
• Decorative bow at the bottom

🎨 Color & Metal

• 88% copper, 12% nickel
• Slightly light or pale in color (not reddish bronze)

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💸 3. Value Breakdown — Why It Can Sell for $172,500

The price varies based on condition and professional authentication.
Top-grade examples certified by PCGS or NGC have sold for:

💰 Up to $172,500 at auction

⚠️ Important

1857 & 1858 Flying Eagle cents look similar but are worth much less—usually only a few dollars.

Only the 1856 date is extremely valuable.

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🧪 4. 5-Step Authentication Protocol (Very Important)

Because of its high value, counterfeits exist. Here’s how experts verify the coin:

Step 1 — Verify the 1856 Date

Make sure the numbers match known genuine font and spacing.

Step 2 — Confirm the Design Details

Look for authentic die characteristics.

Step 3 — Check Weight & Size

• Weight: 4.67 grams
• Diameter: 19 mm

Step 4 — Metal Composition Test

Should be 88% copper, 12% nickel.

Step 5 — Submit to PCGS or NGC

Professional grading is mandatory for establishing value.

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💎 5. Why Collectors Love the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent

✔️ Historic first small-size U.S. cent

✔️ Beautiful, iconic design

✔️ Extremely low mintage

✔️ Strong long-term demand among collectors

This coin is a perfect blend of rarity, history, and artistry.

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🏦 6. Best Places to Sell an Authentic 1856 Flying Eagle Cent

If you own one, never sell it casually. Use these trusted channels:

🥇 Top Auction Houses

• Heritage Auctions
• Stack’s Bowers
• GreatCollections

🏛️ Reputable Rare Coin Dealers

Especially specialists in early American coinage.

⚠️ Never Clean the Coin

Cleaning destroys value instantly.

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📸 7. Think You Might Have One? Here’s What to Do

Send us:

📌 High-resolution photos (front, back, date)
📌 A 360° video under good lighting
📌 Any story or information about where it came from

We offer:
🎁 Free initial evaluation
🎁 Guidance for PCGS/NGC submission
🎁 Help connecting to trusted auction houses

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💬 Expert Quote

“The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is a beautiful blend of art, history, and rarity—a true collector’s prize.”
— Dr. Eleanor Vance, Chief Numismatist, RareCoin Guild

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🛡️ Final Tip

Always pay close attention to date and design details. Transitional coins like this can be worth a fortune!

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