1856 Flying Eagle Penny: $172,500+ Value Guide

The Crown Jewel of Early U.S. Coinage

At CoinVerse.Pro, we authenticate the legendary 1856 Flying Eagle cent – a pivotal coin in American numismatic history. This guide explains why collectors compete to pay $172,500+ for these rare transitional pieces.


Key Identification Features

➡️ Obverse Design:

  • Flying Eagle motif (only used 1856-1858)
  • “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” legend
  • 1856 date (first year of issue)

➡️ Reverse Design:

  • Wreath surrounding “ONE CENT”
  • No shield design (appeared later)

➡️ Physical Specifications:
✅ Diameter: 19mm (smaller than previous large cents)
✅ Weight: 4.70g (88% copper, 12% nickel)
✅ Edge: Plain

1856 Flying Eagle

Valuation Breakdown (2024 Market)

GradePCGS Certified ValueAuction 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

Population Data: Only 125-150 survive in all grades.


5-Step Authentication Protocol

1️⃣ Magnification Inspection (10x-30x)

  • Verify eagle feather details
  • Check for authentic die cracks

2️⃣ Weight/Diameter Verification

  • Must be 4.67g-4.70g
  • Diameter: 19mm exact

3️⃣ Metal Composition Test

  • XRF verification of copper-nickel alloy
  • Matches 1856 mint specifications

4️⃣ Die Variety Study

  • Compare to known 1856 die pairs
  • Verify obverse/reverse alignment

5️⃣ Surface Analysis

  • Check for original mint luster
  • Verify natural toning patterns

Why This Commands $172K+

✔️ First small cent design in U.S. history
✔️ Extremely limited one-year type coin
✔️ Transitional composition (copper-nickel)
✔️ Museum-quality historical significance
✔️ Iconic design beloved by collectors


Premium Selling Options

  1. World-Class Auctions:
    • Heritage “Platinum Night”
    • Stack’s Bowers “Rarities Night”
  2. Type Coin Specialists:
    • Our network of early copper experts
    • Discreet negotiation services
  3. Institutional Placement:
    • Smithsonian consultation available
    • Museum acquisition pathways

⚠️ Critical Warning:

  • Many electrotype copies exist
  • Only purchase PCGS/NGC certified examples

Free Evaluation Offer

Submit:

  1. High-resolution obverse/reverse photos
  2. Clear edge images
  3. Precise weight measurement

🎁 Free With Submission:

  • “Million-Dollar Pennies” guide
  • Current type coin market report

💬 “We’re seeking high-grade Flying Eagles for clients”
— Elizabeth W. (Early Copper Specialist)

[🔐 CoinVerse Authentication Guarantee]
[📅 Valuation Valid Until: Oct 1, 2024]

⏳ Reply “FLYINGEAGLE” for Priority Review!


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