The Flying Eagle penny, a short-lived but highly significant coin in U.S. history, continues to captivate collectors and history enthusiasts alike. Minted for just two years from 1857 to 1858, this small copper-nickel cent marked a pivotal transition in American coinage. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the fascinating world of Flying Eagle pennies, with a particular focus on their historical context, rarity, and value – especially the highly sought-after 1857 Flying Eagle cent errors.
A Brief History of the Flying Eagle Cent
The Need for Change
In the mid-1850s, the United States Mint faced a pressing issue. The large copper cents in circulation had become increasingly unpopular and costly to produce. Several factors contributed to this problem:
- Rising copper prices made production expensive
- The coins were too large and heavy for convenient use
- They were often worn smooth quickly, making them difficult to use in commerce
The Birth of a New Coin
In 1854, Mint Director James Ross Snowden proposed a solution: a smaller, more economical cent made from a bronze alloy. After extensive experimentation and design work, the Flying Eagle penny was born. Key features of the new coin included:
- Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel
- Weight: 4.67 grams
- Diameter: 19 mm
The obverse featured a majestic eagle in flight, designed by James B. Longacre, while the reverse displayed a wreath of agricultural products symbolizing the nation's bounty.
The 1857 Flying Eagle Cent: A Numismatic Milestone
The year 1857 marked the official release of the Flying Eagle cent for circulation. With a mintage of approximately 17,450,000, this coin represented a significant moment in American coinage.
Mintage and Rarity
While relatively common compared to its 1856 predecessor (which was primarily a pattern coin), the 1857 Flying Eagle cent still commands respectable prices in the collector's market. Here's a breakdown of estimated values based on condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $30 |
| Fine (F-12) | $55 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $180 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $625 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS-65) | $3,000+ |
Note: These values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Design Elements
The 1857 Flying Eagle cent features several intricate design elements that collectors should be familiar with:
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Obverse:
- A left-facing eagle in flight
- The legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" surrounds the eagle
- The date "1857" appears below the eagle
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Reverse:
- A wreath of corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco
- The denomination "ONE CENT" within the wreath
The 1857 Flying Eagle Cent Errors: A Collector's Dream
While all Flying Eagle pennies are desirable, errors from this series can be particularly valuable. The 1857 Flying Eagle cent is known for several intriguing errors, with some commanding significant premiums over standard issues.
1. Doubled Die Obverse Error
One of the most sought-after errors in the 1857 Flying Eagle cent series is the Doubled Die Obverse (DDO). This error occurs when the die used to strike the coin receives a double impression during the hubbing process, resulting in a noticeable doubling of design elements.
On the 1857 DDO Flying Eagle cent, collectors should look for doubling in the following areas:
- The letters in "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"
- The eagle's wings and tail feathers
- The date "1857"
Depending on the strength of the doubling and the coin's overall condition, a 1857 DDO Flying Eagle cent can be worth several thousand dollars. In a 2019 auction, a PCGS MS-64 example sold for $18,000.
2. Clashed Die Error
Another fascinating error found on some 1857 Flying Eagle cents is the clashed die error. This occurs when the obverse and reverse dies come together without a planchet (blank coin) between them, resulting in the transfer of design elements from one die to the other.
On 1857 Flying Eagle cents with clashed dies, collectors might observe:
- Faint outlines of the reverse wreath on the obverse, often visible near the eagle's wings
- Traces of the obverse design on the reverse, typically around the wreath
While not as valuable as the DDO error, clashed die 1857 Flying Eagle cents still command a premium over standard issues. A well-preserved example might fetch $200-$500, depending on the strength of the clash marks and overall condition.
3. Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly centered between the dies during the striking process. This results in part of the design being missing from the coin, while a corresponding blank area appears on the opposite side.
For 1857 Flying Eagle cents, off-center strikes can range from minor (5-10% off-center) to major (50% or more off-center). The value of these error coins increases with the percentage of off-centeredness:
| Off-Center Percentage | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| 5-10% | $100 – $300 |
| 20-30% | $500 – $1,500 |
| 40-50% | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| 60%+ | $5,000+ |
Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific coin and market conditions.
Identifying and Authenticating 1857 Flying Eagle Cent Errors
Given the potential value of 1857 Flying Eagle cent errors, it's crucial for collectors to be able to identify genuine errors and distinguish them from post-mint damage or alterations. Here are some expert tips:
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Use a high-quality magnifying glass or loupe: Many errors, particularly DDOs, are best observed under 5x to 10x magnification.
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Compare to known examples: Familiarize yourself with authenticated error coins to develop an eye for genuine mistakes. The "Cherrypickers' Guide to Rare Die Varieties" is an excellent resource.
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Consider professional grading: For potentially valuable errors, submission to a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC can provide authentication and protection.
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Beware of counterfeits: As with any valuable coin, be cautious of fake 1857 Flying Eagle cent errors in the market. Always buy from reputable dealers and be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.
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Study die characteristics: Learn the specific die markers and characteristics of genuine 1857 Flying Eagle cents to help spot alterations or fakes.
The Legacy and Collectibility of the Flying Eagle Cent
Though short-lived, the Flying Eagle cent series left an indelible mark on American numismatics. Its innovative design and composition paved the way for future small cents, including the iconic Indian Head and Lincoln pennies.
Factors Affecting Value
Several factors contribute to the value of Flying Eagle cents, particularly the 1857 issue:
- Rarity: While not as rare as the 1856 pattern, the 1857 Flying Eagle cent is still considered scarce, especially in higher grades.
- Condition: As with most coins, the grade significantly impacts value. Well-preserved examples command substantial premiums.
- Strike Quality: Due to design issues, many Flying Eagle cents exhibit weak strikes. Sharply struck examples are highly prized.
- Errors and Varieties: As discussed, certain errors can dramatically increase a coin's value.
Tips for Collectors
If you're interested in adding a 1857 Flying Eagle cent to your collection, consider these tips:
- Start with a lower-grade example to familiarize yourself with the design and characteristics.
- Invest in a good magnifying glass and reference materials.
- Join a local coin club or online community to learn from experienced collectors.
- Be patient and selective – wait for the right coin at the right price.
- Consider the long-term historical significance of the coin when making your purchase.
Conclusion: A Numismatic Journey Through Time
The 1857 Flying Eagle cent represents more than just a coin – it's a tangible piece of American history. Its brief mintage period, distinctive design, and intriguing errors make it a fascinating subject for both novice and experienced collectors.
As you explore the world of Flying Eagle pennies, remember that each coin tells a story – of artistic vision, technological innovation, and the ever-evolving needs of a growing nation. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of error hunting or the simple beauty of a well-preserved example, the 1857 Flying Eagle cent offers a unique window into a pivotal moment in U.S. coinage history.
Happy collecting, and may your numismatic adventures be filled with exciting discoveries!
