U.S. Flying Eagle Cents (1856-1858)

Learn More About U.S. Flying Eagle Cents (1856-1858)

Flying Eagle Cents, also known as Flying Eagle Pennies, are quite rare and have always been considered a type of souvenir. The Flying Eagle created much excitement in the mid-1800s at a time when the undesirable all-copper Large Cent was being refused by stores and banks. As copper became increasingly more unobtainable, U.S. Mint Director James Snowden decided on a smaller version of the U.S. penny comprised of 88% copper and 12% nickel. The 1856 Flying Eagle cents quickly became collectibles and objects of hoarding. Adapted from an earlier design of Christian Gobrecht, the Flying Eagle was designed by engraver James Longacre and features a bald eagle in mid-flight with a simple wreath on the coin’s reverse. This iconic series was only minted for circulation in 1857 and 1858.

How much is a Flying Eagle penny worth? Contact our expert numismatists at 1-800-965-2646.