A Numismatic Milestone
The 1857 Flying Eagle Cent marked a revolutionary change in U.S. coinage, transitioning from large copper cents to the first small-size pennies. These historic coins represent both technological innovation and artistic achievement in American numismatics.
Current Market Values (2024)
| Grade | Value Range | Population (PCGS/NGC) |
|---|---|---|
| MS66+ | 8,000−8,000−15,000 | <10 |
| MS65 | 3,000−3,000−7,000 | 25-30 |
| MS64 | 1,500−1,500−3,000 | 50-75 |
| MS63 | 900−900−1,500 | 100+ |
| AU55 | 300−300−600 | – |
| XF40 | 150−150−250 | – |
| Circulated | 20−20−100 | – |
Recent Notable Sales:
- $10,350 (PCGS MS66, 2023)
- $7,050 (NGC MS65, 2022)
- $3,525 (PCGS MS64, 2021)
Key Features & Identification
Design Elements:
✅ Obverse: Flying eagle design by James B. Longacre
✅ Reverse: “ONE CENT” wreath (no shield)
✅ Edge: Plain (unlike earlier large cents)
✅ Weight: 4.67 grams (88% copper, 12% nickel)
✅ Diameter: 19mm (smaller than previous cents)
![Comparison showing 1857 Flying Eagle vs. previous large cent]
Why Collectors Prize This Coin
- Historical Significance:
- First small cent (precursor to Indian Head series)
- Introduced nickel alloy to U.S. coinage
- Only 2-year type coin (1857-1858)
- Condition Rarity:
- Weak strikes common (eagle’s tail feathers often soft)
- Few survive in mint state due to circulation
- Investment Potential:
- Prices up 40%+ since 2015
- Registry set demand increasing
Where to Find These Coins Today
Best Hunting Grounds:
- Old Estate Collections (Especially East Coast)
- Coin Shows (Look for type coin dealers)
- Specialty Auctions (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers)
Pro Tip:
Check for original red (RD) surfaces – these command 50-100% premiums over brown (BN) examples.
Grading & Authentication
Critical Grading Factors:
- Eagle’s Tail Feathers (Completeness of detail)
- Wreath Leaves (Sharpness of strike)
- Surface Preservation (Original luster vs. cleaning)
Common Problems:
- Weak strikes (especially on eagle’s wing)
- Environmental damage
- Counterfeits (cast copies exist)
“I Found an 1857 Flying Eagle – Now What?” Checklist
- Handle Carefully (Wear cotton gloves)
- Photograph under natural light
- Weigh Precisely (Must be 4.67g)
- Consult PCGS Photograde
- Consider Professional Grading if AU50+
Grading Cost: 75−75−150 (worth it for potential $10,000+ coin)
Want More Rare Coin Insights?
Visit PennyVerse.info for:
- Free Flying Eagle Cent identification guide
- Current market price reports
- Collector community forum
Like & Share to help preserve numismatic history! #FlyingEagleCent #RarePennies #CoinCollecting
PS: This historic penny proves old coins tell America’s story – what treasures will you discover? 🦅💰
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