Offered here is a beautiful 1857 Flying Eagle Cent, struck at the Philadelphia Mint during a pivotal moment in U.S. coinage history. The Flying Eagle Cent was America’s first small cent, replacing the bulky large cent and introducing the durable copper-nickel alloy that would become standard for decades.
Designed by James B. Longacre, this short-lived series (1856–1858) features an elegant soaring eagle on the obverse and a simple wreath of agricultural products on the reverse—symbolizing the nation’s prosperity and freedom.
This particular coin grades Fine (F), showing moderate, honest wear with clear design details still visible. The eagle’s wings and wreath outlines are well-defined, and the date and lettering remain bold. The coin displays a pleasing, natural mid-tone patina typical of 19th-century copper-nickel issues.
Coin Highlights:
Date: 1857
Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)
Composition: Copper-Nickel (88% copper, 12% nickel)
Weight: 4.67 grams
Diameter: 19mm
Designer: James B. Longacre
Condition: Fine (F) – even wear with visible major details
Mintage: 17,450,000
As the first year of full production, the 1857 Flying Eagle Cent holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history and is a cornerstone for any serious collector of early small cents or 19th-century U.S. coinage.
**For multiple items purchased, we can combine ship which will reduce your overall shipping costs.**