Flying Eagle Penny Values
How Much Flying Eagle Pennies are Worth: Flying Eagle Penny Values & Coin Price Chart
Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | U-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1800 | P | Plain 4- Stemless Wreath | Red-brown | 200 | 300 | 400 | 500 | 600 | 700 | 800 | 900 | 1000 | 1200 | 1100 |
| Year | Mint | Variety | Designation | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | EF-40 | AU-50 | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-64 | MS-65 | MS-66 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1856 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $8,650 | $10,575 | $11,500 | $13,020 | $14,055 | $17,663 | $26,950 | $42,150 | $81,250 | $217,000 |
| 1857 | (None) Phil | -- | -- | $50 | $90 | $180 | $190 | $420 | $602 | $1,150 | $1,725 | $3,175 | $10,790 |
| 1858 | (None) Phil | Large Letters | -- | $80 | $90 | $170 | $270 | $330 | $589 | $1,225 | $1,900 | $3,375 | $8,630 |
| 1858/7 | (None) Phil | Strong | -- | $183 | $287 | $400 | $850 | $1,570 | $3,995 | $9,880 | $33,495 | $54,000 | -- |
| 1858/(7) | (None) Phil | Weak | -- | $75 | $131 | $162 | $287 | $407 | $656 | $1,305 | $1,908 | $3,025 | -- |
| 1858 | (None) Phil | Small Letters | -- | $70 | $90 | $100 | $200 | $340 | $639 | $1,333 | $2,060 | $4,230 | $17,550 |
Overview
The Flying Eagle Penny, minted from 1856 to 1858, was the first small-sized U.S. cent, replacing the Large Cent. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features a detailed eagle in flight, while the reverse showcases a wreath of agricultural products surrounding the denomination. Collectors highly value Flying Eagle Pennies for their short production run, unique design, and key date rarities, making them an essential piece of early U.S. numismatics.
History of the Flying Eagle Penny
The Flying Eagle Penny was introduced in 1856 as a response to the rising cost of producing large cents. The new smaller size was more practical and made of 88% copper and 12% nickel, giving it a slightly white appearance compared to later bronze cents.
Key milestones in the series include:
- 1856 Pattern Coin – Technically a pattern issue, but struck in significant numbers and distributed to politicians and influential individuals, making it one of the most collectible U.S. coins.
- 1857 First Circulating Issue – The first official year of mass production.
- 1858 Large Letters & Small Letters Varieties – A design variation where the lettering size in “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” differs.
Due to striking difficulties and complaints about the coin’s hardness, the Flying Eagle design was discontinued after 1858 and replaced by the Indian Head Penny in 1859.
Collecting Flying Eagle Penny Coins
Collectors seek Flying Eagle Pennies for their historical importance, beautiful design, and extreme rarity in high grades. Many examples are heavily worn, making well-preserved specimens highly desirable.
Notable key dates and varieties include:
- 1856 (Pattern Issue) – Extremely rare and valuable, as fewer than 2,000 were struck.
- 1857 – The first official business-strike issue, heavily circulated but widely collected.
- 1858 Small Letters & Large Letters Varieties – A collectible variety that features different font sizes in the inscriptions.
Additionally, collectors seek well-struck examples with strong eagle feather details, as weak strikes were common due to the coin’s hardness.
Tips for Collectors
- Where to Find Them: Flying Eagle Pennies are best found at major auctions, coin dealers, and estate collections.
- Key Details to Watch For: Look for sharp eagle feather details, clear wreath elements, and minimal wear on high points.
- Proper Storage: Store Flying Eagle Pennies in airtight holders or certified slabs to prevent oxidation and preserve their surfaces.
Most Valuable Coin
The 1856 Flying Eagle Penny is one of the most valuable small cents, as it was struck in limited quantities as a pattern coin. High-grade examples can sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, the 1858 Small Letters variety is sought after for its rarity.
Investment Potential
The Flying Eagle Penny remains a strong investment choice, especially for high-grade examples, early strikes, and the rare 1856 issue. Coins such as 1856, 1858 Small Letters, and well-preserved 1857 examples continue to appreciate in value. Additionally, proof issues and fully struck specimens hold strong collector demand.
Key Dates and Varieties
Collectors and investors often seek the following key dates and varieties:
- 1856 (Pattern Issue) – Extremely rare, with fewer than 2,000 struck.
- 1857 – First mass-circulated issue, popular among collectors.
- 1858 Small Letters – Features smaller, more compact lettering, making it a desirable variety.
- 1858 Large Letters – A slightly more common variety with larger inscriptions.
Notable Errors
- Clashed Dies – Some Flying Eagle Pennies exhibit die clash marks due to improper striking alignment.
- Weak Strikes – Many examples have weak details due to the coin’s hardness.
- Off-Center Strikes – Some coins were struck misaligned, making them valuable errors.
Design Features
The Flying Eagle Penny, designed by James B. Longacre, features:
- Obverse: A left-facing eagle in flight, representing strength and national pride.
- Reverse: A wreath of agricultural products surrounding the denomination “ONE CENT.”
Key design modifications include:
- 1858 Large Letters & Small Letters Variations – The size of the inscriptions changed during production.
Conclusion
The Flying Eagle Penny is a historic and collectible U.S. coin, offering collectors a mix of rarity, beautiful design, and strong investment potential. Whether for historical appreciation, set-building, or investment, this series remains a cornerstone of early U.S. small cents. Understanding its rarities, design variations, and market trends helps collectors make informed decisions when acquiring Flying Eagle Pennies.