The Flying Eagle Penny: A Numismatic Journey

The Flying Eagle penny, an intriguing coin in American numismatic history, was produced from 1856 to 1858. It marked a transition in U.S. coinage from copper to the copper-nickel alloys of smaller size. This coin is cherished by collectors for its historical significance and unique design.

The Birth of the Flying Eagle Penny

Prior to the Flying Eagle penny, large cents had been in circulation since America’s founding. These coins were cumbersome and unpopular. By the mid-19th century, there was a growing demand for smaller coins. The large copper cents were phased out due to their impracticality and cost of production. The Mint began searching for alternatives.

In 1856, a new design for the penny was proposed. The engraver, James B. Longacre, created the Flying Eagle design. The main goal was to reduce the size of the penny while introducing a new, more durable composition. The Flying Eagle was both elegant and functional. It symbolized the strength and agility of the young nation.

Design Characteristics

The obverse of the Flying Eagle cent features an eagle in flight. This design was inspired by Gobrecht’s dollar coins from two decades prior. The eagle is depicted mid-flight, a symbol of freedom and progress. Surrounding the eagle is the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the year of minting.

The reverse carries a simple wreath of corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco. These elements were chosen to represent major American crops, highlighting the nation’s agricultural strength. In the center is the denomination ONE CENT. The design was straightforward but effective.

The Composition Shift

One of the main innovations of the Flying Eagle penny was its composition change. The coin was made from 88% copper and 12% nickel. This alloy gave the coin a distinctive whitish appearance, unlike the darker hues of copper coins that preceded it. It was a practical choice for the time, as nickel was less expensive and more durable.

The adoption of this new composition was indicative of broader shifts in minting technology. The U.S. Mint was able to produce the coin more efficiently and with better wear resistance. This change set a precedent for future coinage in America.

The Short Mintage

The Flying Eagle penny was only minted from 1856 to 1858 due to several challenges. The coin’s relief, or depth of the design, proved difficult for the mint to strike properly. This resulted in uneven wear and rapid design degradation. The design’s high relief meant more frequent die replacements, increasing production costs.

Furthermore, the alloy used posed issues during minting. The hardness of the nickel made the coins difficult to produce at scale. These factors led the U.S. Mint to seek alternatives, resulting in the Pennies’ short lifespan.

The Replacement by Indian Head Penny

Upon discontinuing the Flying Eagle penny, the Mint introduced the Indian Head penny in 1859. This new design offered a more practical solution to the challenges faced by its predecessor. The Indian Head penny had a lower relief, which made it easier to produce.

Additionally, the design change was well-received by the public. The new penny featured a Native American chief, providing a fresh visual symbol. These updates cemented the Indian Head penny’s forty-year production run, replacing the Flying Eagle cent altogether.

The 1856 Pattern Piece Significance

The first year of production, 1856, was primarily a pattern issue. These coins were minted in smaller quantities to test the new designs and compositions. Estimates suggest around 2,000 of these pattern pieces were struck, making them extremely rare and valuable today.

1856 Flying Eagle cents are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance. Known as a key date, obtaining one of these coins is often considered a pinnacle achievement for numismatists.

Collecting the Flying Eagle Penny

Collectors cherish Flying Eagle pennies for various reasons. Their unique design is one of the earliest examples of the U.S. Mint’s experimentation with coin alloys. The short production run adds to their allure, making them a sought-after collectible.

• The 1856 Flying Eagle is one of the most coveted pieces due to its rarity.
• 1857 and 1858 coins are more accessible, offering entry points for collectors.
• Prices for these coins can vary widely based on condition and year of minting.

When seeking a Flying Eagle penny, it’s crucial to verify authenticity. Counterfeits are common, and professional grading services can ensure the coin’s legitimacy. Condition plays a pivotal role in valuation, with grades like Good (G), Very Good (VG), Fine (F), and Very Fine (VF) indicating varying levels of wear.

Eagle Eye: The Legacy of Flying Eagle Cents

Flying Eagle pennies hold a unique place in American coinage history. They bridge the gap between large cents and the more modern one-cent pieces. While their production was brief, they paved the way for innovations in design and technology.

These coins also symbolize a period of change and growth for the United States Mint. Their legacy continues to inspire collectors and historians alike. They are a testament to the creativity and adaptability of the time, exploring practical solutions to minting challenges.