The Origin of the Flying Eagle Penny
The Flying Eagle penny, a well-regarded piece of American numismatic history, first appeared in 1856. This cent was the result of a demand for smaller coins. Prior to the Flying Eagle cent, the U.S. Mint was producing large cents. These were cumbersome and unpopular among the public. The challenge for the U.S. Mint was to develop a smaller, more convenient design.
The artist James Barton Longacre was tasked with creating the new coin design. He was the Chief Engraver at the U.S. Mint. Longacre drew inspiration from the work of Christian Gobrecht. Gobrecht had previously designed the soaring eagle on the reverse of the silver dollar issued between 1836 and 1839. The obverse of the Flying Eagle cent featured an eagle in flight with the word Liberty encircling it. The reverse showed an agricultural wreath surrounding the denomination, One Cent.
The Production of the Flying Eagle Penny
The Flying Eagle penny was officially minted from 1857 to 1858. The initial production in 1856 was primarily a pattern coin, made in limited quantities. These initial coins were struck as a trial to test the new designs and production techniques. The Mint produced fewer than 1,000 pieces in 1856. These coins were distributed mainly to Congress, numismatists, and influential figures for review. As a result, the 1856 Flying Eagle cent is considered one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins.
Despite being minted for only two years, the Flying Eagle penny made a significant impact. Its production introduced a smaller one-cent coin, measuring 19 millimeters in diameter. This size was seen as more practical for everyday transactions. The composition of the penny was also noteworthy. It consisted of 88% copper and 12% nickel, giving it a distinct silvery look. This composition was chosen to reduce costs and improve durability.
The Transition to the Indian Head Cent
Although the Flying Eagle cent solved many problems, it faced production issues. The design, while aesthetically pleasing, often resulted in incomplete strikes. This was due to its intricate nature. The Mint also faced challenges in manufacturing the hard copper-nickel alloy. Consequently, the Flying Eagle was short-lived. By 1859, the Mint introduced a new design: the Indian Head cent, which overcame many of these issues.
The Indian Head cent featured a simplified design and used the same copper-nickel composition. However, it quickly changed to a composition of bronze (95% copper and 5% tin and zinc) in 1864. This change improved minting efficiency and allowed for clearer imprints on the coins.
Notable Features and Collectability
The Flying Eagle penny is a favorite among collectors. Its short period of production and distinct design make it an attractive piece of Americana. The 1856 issue is especially prized due to its rarity. Finding an 1856 coin in good condition is rare. Prices can reach thousands of dollars.
- The differences between coins minted in 1857 and 1858 become important for collectors. In 1857, the coin had a smoother surface, while 1858 pennies showed discernible diagnostics in the eagle’s tail and feathers.
- The 1858 series was released with two variations. Large letters, and small letters. The small letters version is a bit more sought after, though both types remain widely collectible.
Condition is a major factor in a coin’s value. Those coins with little wear are highly coveted. A complete set of Flying Eagle pennies represents a key set in a U.S. penny collection.
The Flying Eagle in Modern Times
In today’s market, the Flying Eagle penny stands as a historical treasure. It serves as a bridge between the large cents of the past and the modern smaller pennies. Many view these coins as symbols of transition, embodying the spirit of innovation within U.S. Mint history. Auctions frequently see high demand and price for well-preserved flying eagle cents.
Those interested in acquiring a Flying Eagle penny should explore reputable coin dealers and numismatic shows. Verification of authenticity is crucial due to the presence of counterfeit coins in the marketplace.
The Influence of the Flying Eagle Penny
Although not minted for long, the Flying Eagle penny’s impact was lasting. It set the stage for future coin designs and innovations at the U.S. Mint. The transition to smaller, more manageable coinage facilitated commerce. It enhanced the efficiency of monetary transactions throughout the nation. Moreover, the lessons learned from its production informed subsequent designs, influencing the generations of coins that followed.
