Flying Eagle Cent Value (1856-1858)
Quick answer: The value of a Flying Eagle Cent (1856-1858) typically ranges from $20 for heavily worn examples to several hundred dollars for coins in good condition. Uncirculated specimens, especially the rare 1856 issue, can be worth thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
The Flying Eagle Cent, minted from 1856 to 1858, represents a pivotal moment in U.S. coinage history, being the first small-sized cent. Its value is highly dependent on its specific year, mint mark (though none exist for this series), and especially its condition. These coins are popular with collectors due to their historical significance and relatively short mintage period.
Several factors determine the value of a Flying Eagle Cent. The most critical are the coin's date, its overall condition (or 'grade'), and any specific varieties. While all Flying Eagle Cents were minted in Philadelphia and thus lack mint marks, the 1856 issue is a key date due to its limited mintage as a pattern coin. The sharpness of the eagle's details and the absence of scratches or environmental damage significantly impact its market price.
Key dates worth serious money
1856
$5,000 – $75,000+
1857
$50 – $3,000
1858 Large Letters
$40 – $2,500
1858 Small Letters
$40 – $2,500
The story behind the coin
The Flying Eagle Cent was the United States Mint's first attempt to replace the large, cumbersome copper cent with a smaller, more practical coin. Authorized by the Coinage Act of 1857, it was composed of 88% copper and 12% nickel, giving it a lighter color than its predecessors. The design, featuring an eagle in flight on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse, was created by James B. Longacre, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint.
The 1856 issue was initially produced as a pattern coin, intended to demonstrate the new small cent to Congress and influential citizens, rather than for general circulation. However, a significant number were released, making it a highly coveted and valuable coin today. Despite its innovative design, the Flying Eagle Cent proved difficult to strike properly, leading to frequent issues with weak details, especially on the eagle's head and tail feathers. This, combined with public complaints about the design, led to its swift replacement by the Indian Head Cent in 1859, making the Flying Eagle Cent a short-lived but historically important series.
Frequently asked questions
What is the rarest Flying Eagle Cent?
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is by far the rarest and most valuable, as it was primarily a pattern coin with a limited mintage before official production began in 1857. Its value can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars depending on condition.
How can I tell if my Flying Eagle Cent is valuable?
The most critical factors are the date (1856 is key), and the coin's condition. Look for sharp details, especially on the eagle's feathers and the wreath. Minimal wear, scratches, or corrosion will increase its value. For an accurate assessment, professional grading is recommended.
Are there any mint marks on Flying Eagle Cents?
No, all Flying Eagle Cents were minted at the Philadelphia Mint and therefore do not have any mint marks. The absence of a mint mark is normal for this series.
Why was the Flying Eagle Cent only minted for three years?
The Flying Eagle Cent was short-lived primarily due to striking difficulties, which often resulted in weakly struck details, and public dissatisfaction with the design. These issues led the U.S. Mint to replace it with the Indian Head Cent in 1859.
Related value guides
Values shown are typical retail ranges for the grades described, based on recent dealer and auction pricing. Markets move; exact value depends on grade, variety and eye appeal. This guide is informational and not a formal appraisal.