Guide to Collecting Flying Eagle Cents

Welcome to our extensive guide on collecting Flying Eagle Cents! Whether you're an experienced collector or a newcomer to the hobby, this resource will offer valuable knowledge about the background, importance, and strategies for acquiring these captivating coins. Let's jump in!

The History of United States Flying Eagle Cents

The U.S. Flying Eagle Cent holds a special place in American numismatic history. These coins were minted from 1856 to 1858, although coins minted in 1856 were not distributed for circulation as currency, and are considered a transitional series. These coins bridged the gap between the larger-sized cents of earlier years and the smaller-sized cents that followed. Designed by James B. Longacre, the Flying Eagle Cent featured a striking new design with an eagle in flight on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse. These coins were minted in relatively small quantities compared to later issues, adding to their demand among collectors.

Why Collect Flying Eagle Cents?

Collectors are drawn to U.S. Flying Eagle Cents for several reasons. Firstly, they represent a significant shift in coin design and production during the mid-19th century. Additionally, Flying Eagle Cents offer a glimpse into a turbulent period of American history, including the lead-up to the Civil War. Their relatively short mintage period and limited availability make them a challenging yet rewarding series to collect. Moreover, Flying Eagle Cents can be found in various conditions and price points, making them accessible to collectors with different budgets and preferences. The 1856 coins are extremely rare to find today and have become a highly prized collectors piece, as well as the proof coins for each year and a few special variations of the Flying Eagle. These coins have become a favorite amongst rare coin collectors.

How Rare Are Flying Eagle Cents?

Flying Eagle Penny Mintages and Values

*Source Red Book 

Flying Eagle Cents are considered scarce in number compared to later issues such as Indian Head Cents. While exact mintage figures vary by year, these coins were produced in limited quantities during their brief production run. As a result, Flying Eagle Cents in higher grades or with desirable characteristics, such as full strikes and original surfaces, command premium prices in the numismatic market. Certain dates, such as the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent, are particularly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and low mintage numbers. There were two types of 1856 Flying Eagles, the first being the pattern coin used to propose and promote the new vision for the one cent coin to congress as well as the media. Both types of the 1856 coins are extremely rare and were minted in minute numbers to begin with, making them highly sought after. The second Flying Eagle in 1856 was the proof coin, these have a different finish than the previous coins and were produced to meet the demands of coin collectors at the time who wanted examples of the new pattern coin in their own collections. Proof Flying Eagle coins were also made in 1857 and 1858, and had the astronomically low mintage of 100 coins in 1857, and 300 in 1858. With the mintage numbers being that low, it’s surely easier now to see why this series is so highly coveted in the world of rare coins.

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1. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent - The inaugural year of the Flying Eagle Cent series, 1856 marked a pivotal moment in American coinage history with the introduction of this new design. While not circulated as currency, these coins became highly popular in a short amount of time during their release.

2. 1857 Flying Eagle Cent - The first year the Flying Eagle was distributed for circulation. 1857 saw continued production of these innovative coins.

3. 1858 Flying Eagle Cent - The final year of mintage for the Flying Eagle Cent series, 1858 marked the end of this short-lived yet influential coinage era.

Starting A Coin Collection

Starting your coin collection is an exciting hobby! Here are some essential steps to get started with collecting Flying Eagle Cents:

1. Define Your Collecting Goals: Determine whether you aim to assemble a complete date set, focus on specific varieties or mintmarks, or pursue coins in a particular condition range. Having specific goals in mind can always make the path of building your personal collection much clearer!

2. Set a Budget: Establish a budget that aligns with your collecting objectives and financial means. Flying Eagle Cents can be found at various price points, so there are options available for collectors with different budgets. Keeping a budget in mind can help you get a better idea of the road map for your collection.

3. Learn About the Coins: Familiarize yourself with the history, design features, and key attributes of Flying Eagle Cents. Utilize resources such as reference books, online forums, and reputable numismatic websites to expand your knowledge.

4. Acquire Proper Storage: Invest in high-quality storage solutions to protect and preserve your Flying Eagle Cent collection. Coin albums, holders, and archival flips are recommended to safeguard your coins for the long term.

Collecting Flying Eagle Cents FAQ

1. Why are Mint State Flying Eagle Cents so scarce?
Despite their relatively high mintage figures (17 million in 1857 and over 24 million in 1858), mint state Flying Eagle Cents are rare. This scarcity is surprising given the short-lived series and the expectation of widespread preservation by collectors. The rarity of high-grade examples significantly drives up their prices, making it challenging to find decent-looking coins without spending a considerable amount.

2. Why doesn't NGC give RD, RB, or BN designation to Flying Eagles?
The color diversity of Flying Eagle Cents, ranging from whitish gold to brown, complicates their categorization compared to bronze Indian Cents. This variation is due to their copper-nickel composition, which differs significantly from the bronze coins. As a result, neither NGC nor PCGS assigns a color designation to copper-nickel coins, including Flying Eagle Cents.

3. How available are Flying Eagle Cents to collectors?
The Flying Eagle Cent was only available for collectors for two years, with the 1856 issue being a high mintage pattern that commands high prices. The design's attractiveness and type collector demand contribute to higher prices for the Flying Eagle, despite the availability of later copper-nickel cents in higher quantities.

4. What advice is there for collectors looking for value?
Collectors seeking value might consider finding a nice AU 58 grade Flying Eagle Cent, which can be less costly than mint state grades while still offering significant eye appeal.

5. What challenges exist in finding well-struck examples?
The apparent high mintage numbers can be misleading since a cent had significant buying power 150+ years ago, making it less likely for people to save these coins. Additionally, striking issues and the coin's role in active circulation as a replacement for large cents contribute to the rarity of well-struck examples.

6. What is the historical context and circulation impact on Flying Eagle Cents?
Flying Eagle Cents were introduced to replace large cents and had to enter active circulation, especially during the Civil War's early years when gold and silver coins disappeared. This context explains the heavy circulation and wear many surviving coins exhibit.

7. Were small cents popular at first?

In August 1857, significant public interest was shown in exchanging old coins for new Flying Eagle cents, contradicting the belief that small cents were initially unpopular due to their lower metal content compared to large cents. This trend indicates a complex relationship between public perception and coin circulation.

8. How do the condition and grading standards for Flying Eagle Cents differ from those of other coin series?

The condition and grading standards for Flying Eagle Cents, like those for other coin series, are critically important in determining their value and collectibility. However, the unique aspects of the Flying Eagle Cents, such as their copper-nickel composition and the period during which they were minted, introduce specific challenges and considerations. For instance, the grading of these coins takes into account the sharpness of the strike, the preservation of detail, especially on the eagle's feathers and the wreath on the reverse, and the overall appearance including color and patina, which can vary significantly due to the alloy used. Collectors must be vigilant for wear on the high points, and because these coins were only minted for a short period, finding examples with minimal wear and original surfaces is particularly challenging. Unlike later coin series that might have more consistent grading criteria, the nuances of the Flying Eagle Cents' grading underscore the importance of understanding the specific attributes that impact their collectibility and value.

9. What are the most common counterfeits or authenticity concerns with Flying Eagle Cents, and how can collectors protect themselves?

Regarding counterfeits and authenticity concerns, Flying Eagle Cents, especially the rare 1856 issue and the proof coins from 1856 to 1858, are prime targets for counterfeiters due to their high value. To protect themselves, collectors should be knowledgeable about the common characteristics of genuine Flying Eagle Cents, including weight, metal composition, and specific design details that can be harder for counterfeiters to replicate accurately. It's also advisable to deal only with reputable dealers or auction houses and consider third-party grading and authentication services. These services can provide an expert evaluation of a coin's authenticity and condition, offering peace of mind to collectors. Awareness of the common tells of counterfeits, such as incorrect weights, details that don't match official mint specifications, or materials that don't align with the original copper-nickel composition, is crucial.

10. Can you provide more detailed historical context or stories behind the creation and circulation of the 1856 pattern coin and the proof coins of 1857 and 1858?

The historical context behind the creation and circulation of the 1856 pattern coins and the proof coins of 1857 and 1858 is fascinating and underscores the innovation and transition in American coinage during this period. The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent was initially produced as a pattern to demonstrate the proposed smaller size of the cent coin and the new design featuring the flying eagle. This transition was partly motivated by the need to economize on metal use and to create a coin that was more practical for widespread circulation. The proof coins of this era were minted in extremely low quantities, primarily for collectors and for archival purposes, showcasing the Mint's craftsmanship and the new design's aesthetic appeal. These proofs were struck with a special care to ensure a higher quality finish, setting them apart from regular issue coins. The production of these coins came at a time of significant technological and social change in the United States, including the lead-up to the Civil War, and reflects the Mint's efforts to modernize the coinage in both form and function. Collecting these pieces connects enthusiasts not just to a pivotal moment in numismatic history but also to the broader narrative of American progress and innovation.

Where to Buy Flying Eagle Cents

You can buy Flying Eagle Cents online at Bullion Shark and other reputable coin dealers and trusted sources. Look for dealers with a proven track record of authenticity and transparency in their transactions. Online marketplaces, coin shows, and reputable auction houses are viable options for acquiring Flying Eagle Cents. Consider working with established dealers like Bullion Sharks, who offer genuine coins and provide valuable guidance to collectors.At Bullion Sharks, we take great pride in our reputation as a reliable vendor, with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and over three decades of expertise in the numismatic field. Whether you're embarking on a new collection or seeking to expand your existing one. Explore our website today to browse a diverse selection of rare coins, informative guides, and invaluable resources. Let Bullion Sharks serve as your trusted ally in beginning your cent coin collection with confidence!