1858 Flying Eagle Cent
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1850s (specifically 1858)
Material
Copper-Nickel (88% Copper, 12% Nickel); known as 'White Cents' for their light color.
Condition
Good (G-4 to G-6). The coin shows significant circulation wear; the eagle's eye is not visible, it lacks wing feather detail, and the date is readable but heavily worn.
Demand Level
Strong. Flying Eagle Cents are a 'must-have' for US coin collectors and sell quickly due to the short duration of the series.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $25 | Mid: $40 | High: $55
Estimated Retail Value
$0.01 (Original Face Value) / $40-$60 (Current Market Price for this grade)
Comparable Sales
Recent sales on eBay for G-4 to G-6 raw 1858 cents range from $32 to $48 depending on eye appeal and surface marks.
Description
Authentic 1858 Flying Eagle Cent. This historic American penny features James B. Longacre's short-lived eagle-in-flight design. The reverse (not pictured but inherent to the type) features a corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco wreath. The date 1858 is clearly legible. The coin has a dark patina with some surface pitting and heavy wear consistent with a mid-19th-century circulated coin.
Key Features
First 'Small Cent' in US history; short-lived series (only 1856-1858); high collector demand for type sets; distinct copper-nickel composition.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct lettering font and spacing for the 1858 date; characteristic wear patterns for the copper-nickel alloy. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
Heavy wear on high points (eagle head and wings), significant surface dirt/oxidation, visible scratches, and flattening of the 'United States of America' lettering.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (highest reach), GreatCollections (specialized), or local coin shops (for immediate cash but lower payout).
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean the coin; collectors prefer original surfaces and cleaning can destroy 90% of the value. Use the keyword 'Flying Eagle Penny' and 'Lg Letters' or 'Sm Letters' if you can identify the variety. Take high-resolution photos of BOTH sides.