1857 Proof Flying Eagle Cent

Coin Details

Auction Record

$46,000 PR66 07-31-2009 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1857 Proof Flying Eagle Cent is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Flying Eagle Cents 1856-1858 series. With a mintage of 485, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features a flying eagle in mid-flight, adapted from the Gobrecht dollar reverse and the reverse displays a wreath enclosing ONE CENT. First year of regular production and the first small cent for general circulation. The public enthusiastically adopted the smaller format, and the old large cents were rapidly retired from commerce. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $10K. Struck in 88% copper, 12% nickel, weighing 4.7 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2040.