Numismatic

1858 Flying Eagle Cent Small Letters AU

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In the late 1850s, a bold new design briefly graced American pocket change. The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent represents the final year of a remarkably short-lived series that ran only from 1856 to 1858. This particular coin, preserved in About Uncirculated condition, showcases the transition of American minor coinage away from the large copper cents of the early republic. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is composed of a durable copper-nickel alloy. The obverse features a dynamic image of an eagle in mid-flight, surrounded by the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the date 1858. This soaring motif, created by designer James B. Longacre, was a departure from the traditional portrait busts of Liberty. On the reverse, the coin displays the denomination ONE CENT nestled within an ornamental wreath. The clean, bold lettering of the denomination stands out clearly, framed by the detailed foliage. Because this design was minted for only three years, finding an example with such well-preserved details offers a fascinating glimpse into a transitional era of United States coinage.