Fugio Cent Price Guide: How Much Is the 1787 Coin Really Worth?

What do you get when you combine revolutionary fervor, Benjamin Franklin’s wit, and thirteen colonies on the brink of nationhood? You get the Fugio Cent 1787 — the very first official coin of the United States. 

Known for its sundial, Latin motto, and a blunt reminder to “Mind Your Business,” this coin is more than copper. But how much is a Fugio Cent worth today? And what drives the 1787 Fugio Cent value on the market?

Today you’ll know it all — from the origins, the best coin identifier app, and symbols to errors, collector demand, and up-to-date pricing. 

What Is a Fugio Cent?

To answer, think of it as the grandfather of U.S. coinage. Authorized by the Congress of the Confederation on April 21, 1787, the Fugio Cent was minted in copper and possibly designed by Benjamin Franklin himself. It was America's first attempt to unify its monetary system under a common design — a bold act of nation-building in metal.

Fugio Cent Meaning and Symbolism

Obverse (Front):

Design: A sundial with the word "Fugio" (Latin for I fly or I flee), symbolizing time.

Message: "Mind Your Business" – interpreted both as a call to productivity and a literal reference to commerce.

Reverse (Back):

Design: Thirteen chain links surrounding the motto “We Are One”, a powerful visual of unity among the original states.

Symbolic Weight: The Fugio Cent meaning lies in its fusion of Enlightenment thinking, political unity, and pragmatic economics. It’s America’s founding principles… in your palm.

A Bit of History – The Bank of New York Hoard

In 1788, thousands of uncirculated Fugio Cents were stored in a keg in the basement of the Bank of New York. Forgotten until 1856, repackaged, and forgotten again until 1926, the rediscovery became known as The Bank of New York Hoard. Over 1,600 pristine coins were eventually studied, gifted, or sold — and these coins remain among the best-preserved examples in existence today.

Rare Varieties and Errors

Collectors are especially drawn to varieties and minting quirks:

• "New Haven Restrike" (not original issues — beware)

• Die Cracks and Off-Center Strikes

• Varieties with club rays, pointed rays, or no rays on the sundial

• Missing or misaligned letters

These small changes can significantly affect how much is the Fugio Cent worth in today’s market.

Fugio Cent Price Guide

So, how much is a Fugio Cent worth in 2025? Condition is everything. Coins are graded on the Sheldon scale from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70). Here's a detailed pricing table:

Note: Rarities or unique errors can fetch double or more.

Looking for a 1787 Fugio Cent for sale? Auction houses like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers often feature them, but prices can be volatile depending on provenance and die variety.

Market Factors That Influence the Value

Several key forces shape value:

• Provenance: Coins from the Bank of NY Hoard carry prestige.

• Eye Appeal: Luster, toning, and detail preservation are critical.

• Historical Interest: As the first U.S. coin, demand remains strong.

• Certification: Coins graded by NGC or PCGS command higher prices.

Still wondering, how much is it worth compared to other colonial coins? It consistently ranks among the top 5 most sought-after pre-federal coins.

Where to Find a 1787 Fugio Cent for Sale

Online marketplaces:

1. eBay: Widely available but tread carefully; many reproductions exist.

2. Heritage Auctions: Top-tier coins with certification.

3. Stack’s Bowers: Strong reputation among serious numismatists.

Always verify the authenticity and demand professional grading if you’re unsure.

How to Identify and Evaluate Your Coin

Whether you're holding one or spotting one at a flea market, identifying your coin is a must.

1. Check the chain links: 13? It’s legit.

2. Look for the sundial and motto: “Fugio” and “Mind Your Business.”

3. Reverse must have “We Are One” and chain design.

4. Weight: ~10 grams

5. Diameter: ~28-29 mm

Need help with that?

Instead of fumbling through dozens of articles or forums, let your phone do the heavy lifting. The Coin ID Scanner app allows you to:

• Instantly identify coins via photo

• Get value estimates

• Access detailed numismatic information

• Manage your collection digitally

• No guessing — just results.

Why the Fugio Cent Still Matters

The Fugio Cent 1787 isn’t just America’s first coin — it’s a time capsule of political philosophy, design innovation, and bold national identity. Whether you’re investing, collecting, or simply fascinated by early American money, the 1787 Fugio Cent value is a story worth holding onto.

And when in doubt, let your smartphone help — download Coin ID Scanner and know the value of your coin in seconds. Your answers are just a scan away.

FAQs

Was the Fugio Cent actually used in everyday commerce?

Yes — but only briefly and with limited circulation. It was struck in 1787 following authorization by the Congress of the Confederation, making it the first official coin of the United States. 

However, due to logistical challenges, lack of a federal mint, and state-level competition in currency, its widespread use was short-lived. 

What’s the difference between a genuine Fugio Cent and a restrike, fake or reproduction?

Genuine ones were struck in 1787 and show distinct period characteristics in design, weight, and wear. Restrikes (such as the "New Haven Restrike") were made later using different dies, often lacking the same detail or metallic content. Reproductions are typically modern copies made for collectors or educational purposes and often lack numismatic value.

Key differences include:

• Originals may have patina or age-related toning.

• Originals usually have consistent edge lettering or plain edges, while reproductions might have seams.

• Modern restrikes often show signs of modern engraving or lack known errors from original dies.

Are Fugio Cents a good investment for the future?

Yes — under specific conditions. Coins with:

• Certified high grades

• Documented provenance (e.g., Bank of NY Hoard)

• Rare die varieties or minting errors

…are more likely to appreciate in value over time.