1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Small Letters
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$40,800 MS66+ 04-26-2020 Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Small Letters is a cent produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Flying Eagle Cents 1856-1858 series. With a mintage of 24.6 million, this is a less common issue — the lowest mintage among 4 mint variants, representing only 25% 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. 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 at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $123 to $15K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 88% copper, 12% nickel, weighing 4.7 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2020.
