1858 Flying Eagle Cent Base
Base
About This Coin
The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent Base is a United States cent from the Flying Eagle Cents 1856-1858 series — the final year of the series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 24,600,000 Flying Eagle cents dated 1858, Large Letters and Small Letters together; no record was kept of the proofs, which NGC estimates at about 200. The obverse features a flying eagle in mid-flight, adapted from the Gobrecht dollar reverse and the reverse displays a wreath enclosing ONE CENT. Two major varieties exist: Large Letters and Small Letters, referring to the size of the legend on the obverse. The design was replaced by the Indian Head Cent in 1859 due to striking difficulties caused by the high-relief eagle. Struck in 88% copper, 12% nickel, weighing 4.67 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Designed by James Barton Longacre.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(9)
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - 8/7 Strong
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - 8/7 Weak
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Large Letters
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Large Letters Low Leaves FS-901
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Proof Large Letters
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Proof Small Letters
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Small Letters
1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Small Letters High Leaves FS-1901
1858 Proof Flying Eagle Cent - Small Letters High Leaves Snow-PR1
Other Base Coins in This Series
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