1856 Flying Eagle Coin: Small Cent, Large Value

Today we will talk about a small, at first glance, unremarkable coin - 1856 eagle penny. But behind the small cent and its modest denomination is a big history, promising important changes in the American monetary system. Now the Flying Eagle cent is known for its exclusivity, rarity and high value among collectors.

Why does this particular 1856 penny cause such a stir among collectors? Why do auction houses and private collectors around the world keep a close eye on every 1856 flying eagle cent for sale and are willing to pay six-figure amounts to own it?

The Soaring Eagle: History and Context

The story of Flying Eagle pennies began as it most often happens because of the government's need to reform the monetary system in the middle of the 20th century. The old copper Large Cents, used until the mid-1850s, were no longer convenient and profitable for circulation (production was becoming less and less profitable due to rising copper prices).

As a result, it was decided to create a new, smaller type of coin, the Flying Eagle penny, which became the first small U.S. cent. It replaced the larger copper cents and was made of an alloy of copper and nickel, which reduced production costs.

Its minting began with a small mintage in 1856. This coin opened a new era in the history of American copper cents, and its design became an icon of its time.

What Makes 1856 Special

The year 1856 was an experimental year when it was decided to test a new design and size of flying eagle cent coins. A limited number of coins were issued that year, most of which were intended for congressmen and officials to approve changes in the monetary system.

The official issue of 1856 Flying Eagle examples was limited to only 1,000-2,000 pieces. These coins were not issued for mass circulation like half cents and, rather, had the character of a proof issue. Unlike the subsequent 1857 and 1858 issues, which were produced in the millions, the 1856 one cent is extremely rare.

The 1856 US penny was the first small coin, and that makes it especially significant to collectors. These coins are considered to be the predecessor of all subsequent US cents.

Eagle Penny Design: Images of Power and Fertility

The obverse of the coin features a great flying eagle designed by James B. Longacre. The bird with spread wings symbolizes the strength and independence of the United States. The obverse design was beloved by patriots, but the complexity of the design was too much for the Mint's production capacity, and the eagle was replaced with a different image in subsequent issues.

The reverse shows a wreath of wheat ears, which symbolized fertility and prosperity. Inside the wreath is the face value of the coin - “ONE CENT”.

Features and characteristics of the coin

The 1856 Flying Eagle cent features not just a unique design, but also technical characteristics. Below is a table with key data:

This data highlights the technical innovations introduced in the creation of this coin. The coin's minting alloy was relatively new for U.S. coins and gave the coin a lighter color than previous copper cents, an innovation at the time.

In 1857, when the coin went into mass coinage, its weight and size were changed to make it easier to use in circulation.

1856 Flying Eagle Penny for Sale: 1856 One Cent Value and Places to Find?

The 1856 one cent Flying Eagle remains one of the most expensive U.S. coins today, especially in excellent condition, as well as 1921 US Dimes.  The Original 1856 one cent coin is worth up to $100,000 and more, depending on the condition of the coin and its preservation.

In the table below you can see the approximate range of 1856 flying eagle penny value in different condition:

Where to Find 1856 Flying Eagle Cent?

Based on the above we can conclude that the 1856 flying eagle cent value is extremely high, so finding a coin to buy is a difficult task, but it is doable with certain resources. Here are a few places to look for this rare coin:

1. Auctions: Well-known sites, e.g., Heritage Auctions and Stack's Bowers regularly offer rare specimens, among which you may find a long-awaited coin.

2. Internet sites and fairs: Sites like eBay and Catawiki may also offer Flying Eagle for sale.

But we would like to draw your attention to the fact that original 1856 Flying Eagle pieces are often counterfeited. We believe that it is better safe than sorry, so we recommend that you consider using the Coin ID Scanner app for your collection. With the app, you can scan a coin to verify its authenticity or find out all the basic information, historical background and even clarify the market value to be on the safe side when buying or verifying a coin. 

3. Local numismatic exhibitions and coin shows: Coins presented at specialized exhibitions often undergo strict authentication tests, making them more reliable for purchase.

Coin Defined the Future

The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is a coin that captured a significant part of U.S. history, but  also became one of the most valuable pieces among numismatists. It is highly valued due to its limited mintage, elegant design, and its role in the move to small cents. This small 1856 flying eagle penny is worth your attention and is truly of “great value”, both historically and monetarily.

If you are a collector looking to add one of the rarest coins to your collection, the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is a coin that is certainly worth its money. However, be prepared that its value is really high and finding it is not an easy task.

Sources:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flying_Eagle_cent

2. https://stacksbowers.com/coin-resource-center/us-coins/small-cents/flying-eagle-cent/