1858 Flying Eagle Cent (Small Letters Variety)
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money > US Coins > Small Cents
Era / Decade
1850s (specifically 1858)
Material
88% Copper, 12% Nickel (also known as 'Copper-Nickel' or 'White Cent' composition)
Condition
Fair to Good (G-4 to G-6). The coin shows significant circulation wear. While the date is clear, the eagle's feathers details are worn flat, and the field has numerous scratches and 'rim dings' (notably at the top edge).
Demand Level
Strong. The Flying Eagle Cent is a 'Type Coin' that almost every US coin collector needs for their collection, ensuring steady demand despite the low grade.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $25.00 - $35.00
Estimated Retail Value
$40.00 - $60.00 (Current market price for a graded Good instance)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings for 1858 Flying Eagle cents in 'Good' condition range from $18.00 to $32.00 depending on eye appeal. Coins with similar scratches/damage tend to sell at the lower end of that range.
Description
Authentic 1858 Flying Eagle Cent. This historic American coin features James B. Longacre's design of an eagle in flight on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse. This is the 'Small Letters' variety evidenced by the spacing of the letters in 'AMERICA'. Clear 1858 date with heavy circulation patina and surface scratches consistent with its age.
Key Features
First series of the US small-sized cent; highly collectible short-lived series (only minted for circulation in 1857 and 1858); clear date and 'United States of America' text.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font styling for 1858 date; proper 'pitting' texture indicative of the copper-nickel alloy of the era. Confidence: Medium-High (Requires weight and diameter verification to be 100% certain, as high-quality fakes exist).
Flaws to Note
Significant surface scratches and abrasions throughout the eagle's body and fields; noticeable nicks on the rim at the 12 o'clock and 4 o'clock positions; heavy overall wear reducing detail.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform for reach; GreatCollections or Heritage Auctions for high-grade specimens (though not this specific coin); local coin shops for immediate cash (expect 50-60% of value).
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean the coin, as this destroys numismatic value; use a macro lens to show the date clearly; list as '1858 Flying Eagle Cent - Small Letters'; mention the clear date in the title. Use a cardboard 2x2 flip for shipping to prevent further scratching.