Flying Eagle Cents (1856 to 1858): America’s First Small Cent
The Flying Eagle cent was America's first small cent, made from 1856 to 1858. Learn its history, the rare 1856, and the 1858 large and small letter varieties.
The Flying Eagle cent was only made for about three years, but it changed American money for good. It replaced the big copper large cent with a small coin about the size of today’s penny, and it’s a favorite with collectors.
Why the Mint Made a Smaller Cent
By the 1850s, copper had become expensive, and the old large cents cost almost as much to make as they were worth. They were also bulky and unpopular. In 1857, Congress authorized a new, smaller cent made of copper and nickel, and the large cent and half cent were discontinued.
The Basics
- Made for circulation in 1857 and 1858
- 88% copper and 12% nickel, giving it a lighter color than later pennies
- Designed by James B. Longacre, based on an eagle design by Christian Gobrecht
- All were made at Philadelphia, so there are no mint marks
The Rare 1856
About 1,500 to 2,000 Flying Eagle cents dated 1856 were made before the coin was officially authorized, many to show members of Congress and other officials. Collectors have always wanted them, and they’re valuable. Because of that, some 1858 cents have been altered to look like 1856. Have any 1856 checked.
The 1858 Varieties
There are two versions of the 1858 cent:
- Large Letters: The A and M in AMERICA touch.
- Small Letters: The A and M are separated.
Both are collectible. There’s also an 1858/7 overdate variety, where traces of a 7 show under the 8.
What Are They Worth?
All Flying Eagle cents are worth well above face value, even in worn condition. The copper-nickel alloy was hard, which made the coins difficult to strike well, so sharp detail on the eagle’s feathers is a plus. Value depends on date, variety, and condition. Damage, corrosion, and cleaning lower value.
The Flying Eagle cent was replaced in 1859 by the Indian Head cent. See Indian Head pennies.
More guides: large cents and half cents, wheat pennies.
The Bottom Line
Flying Eagle cents were America’s first small cents, made for circulation in 1857 and 1858. Every one is collectible, the 1858 has large and small letter varieties, and the 1856 is a famous rarity.
Have a Flying Eagle cent? JoCo Coin Shop offers honest, no-obligation appraisals across the Kansas City area. Contact me by phone, text, or email to get started.
