1857 Proof Flying Eagle Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Value as of May 2026, from the one price recorded for this coin. Actual sales can differ. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $46,000
- Sold
- Grade
- PR66
- Auction house
- 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. No record was kept of how many 1857 proofs were struck; NGC uses an estimate of 100 and thinks it is high. 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. Struck in 88% copper, 12% nickel, weighing 4.67 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2040.
External References
Error Varieties(1)
Other Strike Types in This Series
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