The 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent is one of the most fascinating coins in U.S. history. Struck during a time when the U.S. Mint was experimenting with new designs and materials, this coin represents a significant turning point in American coinage. The Flying Eagle Cent, with its beautiful design and innovative composition, has become a highly sought-after item for collectors. This article will explore the history, design features, rarity, and value of the 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent, specifically the Small Cent with Large Letters variety.
The History of the Flying Eagle Cent
Before the Flying Eagle Cent was introduced, the U.S. Mint used large cents made of copper. These coins were heavy and became less practical for everyday use. As a result, the Mint sought to design a smaller coin that could be more easily carried and used in daily transactions. This led to the creation of the Flying Eagle Cent, which debuted in 1856.
The Design Features of the 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent
The 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent features the following key design elements:
Obverse Design
On the obverse (front) of the coin, you’ll find a flying eagle with its wings spread wide. The eagle is positioned in the center of the coin, soaring through the air. Surrounding the eagle are the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, with the date “1858” at the bottom. The Large Letters variety is characterized by the larger font used for the word “CENTS” on the reverse side, making it easily distinguishable from the Small Letters variety.
Reverse Design
The reverse (back) of the coin features a shield at the top, with an olive branch and a bundle of arrows beneath it. In the center, the word “CENTS” is inscribed, surrounded by a wreath of laurel leaves. The large letters version of the coin has the word “CENTS” written in larger, more prominent characters compared to the small letters variety, which is why it is referred to as the Large Letters Flying Eagle Cent.
Specifications
- Diameter: 19 millimeters
- Weight: 4.67 grams
- Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel
- Edge: Plain
Why Collect the 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent?
1. Historical Significance
The 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent is one of the first U.S. coins to be struck with a copper-nickel alloy, marking an important shift in American coinage. It represents the beginning of the modern era of U.S. coins, moving away from the large, heavy copper cents to smaller, more practical pieces.
2. Stunning Design
The Flying Eagle Cent features one of the most iconic designs in American coinage. The soaring eagle is a symbol of American freedom and strength, making this coin a true piece of numismatic art.
3. Investment Potential
As with many rare and historic coins, the 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent has significant investment potential. Due to its low mintage, its value has steadily increased over time, and it is likely to continue to appreciate as fewer coins are available in high grades.
Tips for Collecting the 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent
- Know Your Grading: Familiarize yourself with coin grading to ensure you are paying a fair price for a coin. Look for well-defined details, minimal wear, and an overall clean appearance.
- Buy from Trusted Dealers: Purchase your coin from a reputable dealer or auction house that provides guarantees of authenticity and quality.
- Focus on Condition: A higher-grade coin will always be more valuable than one in poor condition. Seek out well-preserved specimens for the best potential return on investment.
Conclusion
The 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent is not just a coin; it is a significant part of U.S. history, representing a shift in the nation’s coinage system and embodying the ideals of liberty and freedom. With its beautiful design, limited mintage, and unique characteristics, the Flying Eagle Cent remains one of the most desirable coins among collectors.
FAQs
Q1: What makes the 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent so valuable?
A: The 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent is valuable due to its historical significance, beautiful design, and rarity, with only a small number of high-quality examples remaining.
Q2: How can I identify the Large Letters variety of the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent?
A: The Large Letters variety features the word “CENTS” on the reverse with larger, more prominent letters compared to the Small Letters variety.
Q3: What is the value of an 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent?
A: The value of the 1858 P Flying Eagle Cent can range from $30 in lower grades to over $3,000 for high-grade or uncirculated specimens.