Numismatic

1857-1858 Flying Eagle Cents Avg Circ

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In the late 1850s, the United States Mint introduced a dramatic departure from its traditional large copper coinage. The Flying Eagle cent, minted for general circulation only in 1857 and 1858, brought a fresh aesthetic and a new metallic composition to the public. Crafted from an alloy of copper and nickel, these pieces represent a pivotal transition in American numismatic history, offering a smaller, more convenient size than the bulky coppers that came before. The obverse of the coin features a dynamic depiction of an eagle in full flight, soaring across the field. Surrounding this majestic bird is the national legend, stretching from the left side of the rim to the right. This active, naturalistic portrayal of the eagle was a bold stylistic choice for the era's circulating currency. On the reverse, the coin emphasizes simplicity and clarity. The face value of ONE CENT is boldly inscribed at the center, nestled within a detailed, decorative wreath. Designed by James B. Longacre, this short-lived series remains a favorite for those exploring the evolution of early United States small cents.