Numismatic

1858 Flying Eagle Cent Small Letters Fine

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The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent represents a brief but highly significant era in American numismatic design. Struck during a short production run that spanned only from 1856 to 1858, this coin showcases the artistry of designer James B. Longacre. It stands out as a departure from earlier coinage, capturing a sense of movement and natural grace that was highly innovative for its time. On the obverse, a magnificent eagle is depicted in mid-flight, soaring across the face of the coin. Surrounding this central image is the legend indicating the issuing nation, with the year 1858 anchored at the bottom. The reverse design presents a contrasting, quiet elegance, featuring the denomination of ONE CENT nestled within a detailed, woven wreath. This particular specimen is composed of a copper-nickel alloy, giving it a distinct composition compared to other early cents. Preserved in Fine condition, the coin retains the clear, recognizable elements of its original mid-nineteenth-century design, offering a tangible connection to the artistry of the pre-1933 era.