Flying Eagle Cent (1856–1858): A Landmark in U.S. Numismatics

The Flying Eagle Cent, designed by James Barton Longacre, represents a pivotal moment in U.S. coinage history. As the first small-sized cent, minted from 1856 to 1858, it combines historical significance, artistic design, and collectability, making it a must-have for collectors.

Key Features

• Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel
• ... Read More

Flying Eagle Cent (1856–1858): A Landmark in U.S. Numismatics

The Flying Eagle Cent, designed by James Barton Longacre, represents a pivotal moment in U.S. coinage history. As the first small-sized cent, minted from 1856 to 1858, it combines historical significance, artistic design, and collectability, making it a must-have for collectors.

Key Features

• Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel
• Diameter: 19 mm
• Weight: 4.66 grams
• Edge: Plain
• Mintage: 42,050,000 (business strikes)
• Proof Mintage: Fewer than 2,000

Design Highlights

• Obverse: An eagle in flight, adapted from Christian Gobrecht’s 1836–1839 silver dollar designs. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" arcs above, with the date below.
• Reverse: An agricultural wreath of cotton, corn, wheat, and tobacco encircles "ONE CENT," a motif borrowed from Longacre’s earlier gold coin designs.

Rarity and Collectability

Flying Eagle Cents are highly collectible, with the 1856 pattern issue being particularly scarce:

• Key Dates and Varieties:
  • 1856 Pattern: Only about 600 were initially minted, with additional restrikes in the late 1850s.
  • 1858 Varieties: Includes small letters, large letters, and the 1858/7 overdate.
• Grades Available:
  • 1857 and 1858 coins are accessible in grades from Fine to Uncirculated.
  • Truly superb Uncirculated and full Proof specimens are rare.

Historical Context

The Flying Eagle Cent was introduced to replace the large cent, which had become costly to produce and cumbersome in circulation. The 1856 cent was initially struck as a pattern to gain legislative approval for the smaller format. Full production began in 1857, with the coins distributed widely and enthusiastically received.

By 1858, challenges in striking the design led to its replacement by the Indian Head Cent in 1859. The Flying Eagle Cent’s brief two-year production run has made it one of the most ephemeral U.S. coin designs.

Why Collect Flying Eagle Cents?

As America’s first small-sized cent, the Flying Eagle Cent holds immense historical and numismatic value. Its elegant design, unique varieties, and pivotal role in U.S. coinage history make it a prized addition to any collection.

Shop Flying Eagle Cents at ParadimeCoins.com

Explore our curated collection of Flying Eagle Cents, including rare 1856 patterns and high-grade 1857 and 1858 examples. At ParadimeCoins.com, we connect collectors with iconic coins that capture the essence of American numismatic history. Start your journey with this historic cent today!