When most people think of early American coins, images of worn silver dollars or classic copper pennies come to mind. But one coin that stands out in numismatic history is the 1856 Flying Eagle cent a small copper-nickel coin that carried a bold new design and an even bolder legacy. Though it was never officially released for circulation, this tiny cent with two feathers on its eagle design has become one of the most sought-after and valuable coins for collectors today.
Its story is one of rarity, innovation, and the mysterious journey of a coin that was meant to prepare the nation for change but ended up soaring well beyond expectations.
A Brief History: Why the Flying Eagle Cent Was Introduced
By the mid-19th century, the U.S. Mint faced several challenges with the penny. The classic large cents, made entirely of copper, were becoming costly to produce and awkwardly large for everyday use. The government decided to shrink the size and change the composition, introducing a new one-cent coin made of copper and nickel.
The Flying Eagle cent was designed in 1856 as a pattern coin essentially a prototype to test the new size and metal composition. It featured a bold eagle in flight, with two feathers clearly visible on its wing, symbolizing strength and progress. The coin was never officially released to the public, but a limited number were struck for testing and presentation purposes.
The Two Feathers That Make All the Difference
One of the most fascinating details about the 1856 Flying Eagle cent is the eagle’s two feathers on its wing. This design is distinct from the later 1857 and 1858 Flying Eagle cents, which show three feathers. This subtle difference helps collectors identify the 1856 variety and adds to its mystique.
Because only about 1,000 of these pattern coins were minted and even fewer survived in collectible condition the 1856 Flying Eagle cent is incredibly rare. To put it in perspective, it’s estimated that fewer than 100 of these coins are in the hands of collectors today.
Why the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent Is Worth a Fortune
The rarity of the 1856 Flying Eagle cent naturally drives up its value, but several other factors contribute to its soaring price:
- Historical Significance: It marks the transition from the large copper cent to the smaller, more practical penny.
- Limited Mintage: With fewer than 1,000 struck and even fewer surviving, its scarcity is undeniable.
- Collector Demand: As one of the earliest pattern coins in U.S. history, it attracts avid collectors seeking to complete their sets.
- Condition: Well-preserved examples, especially those with clear details and minimal wear, can command astronomical prices.
In recent auctions, pristine 1856 Flying Eagle cents have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars. One coin in particularly fine condition fetched over $300,000, a testament to its rarity and desirability.
How to Identify an Authentic 1856 Flying Eagle Cent
Because of its high value, many counterfeit or altered coins have surfaced over the years. If you think you’ve found an 1856 Flying Eagle cent, here’s what to look for:
- Date: Clearly marked 1856.
- Design Details: The eagle in flight with two feathers on its wing.
- Size and Composition: Smaller than previous large cents, made of a copper-nickel alloy.
- Expert Verification: Always have a coin authenticated and graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
Never buy or sell without professional evaluation, as fakes and reproductions are unfortunately common.
The Legacy of the Flying Eagle Cent
Though the Flying Eagle cent was only officially minted for circulation in 1857 and 1858, the 1856 pattern coins represent a critical moment in American coinage history. They symbolize innovation and adaptation, a small but mighty coin that helped usher in a new era of currency.
Collectors prize the 1856 Flying Eagle cent not just for its monetary value, but for its story a story of a coin that never quite took flight in the public’s hands but continues to soar in the hearts and wallets of collectors today.
Final Thoughts: A Piece of History in Your Hand
The 1856 Flying Eagle cent is more than just an old penny it’s a piece of American history, a symbol of change, and a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of early minting. Its rarity and the unique two-feather design make it one of the most exciting finds for collectors.
If you ever come across one, know that you’re holding a coin that represents both a literal and figurative flight into the future a coin whose value continues to rise as its legend grows.