Lot 1753
1856 Flying Eagle Cent. PCGS graded Proof 65 CAC Verified. Lovely shades of golden toning. Well struck and choice. Satiny to mirror-like surfaces with some expressive golden tan highlights in wide swathes. A pleasing Gem Proof example of one of the most revered small cent issues in American numismatics. A dullish impression was sometimes left by the recoil of the dies that struck 1856 Flying eagle cents, even some Proofs aren't crisply made; however, as the photographs clearly show, and as first-hand experience with a magnifying glass reveals, we're pleased to report that this is a gorgeous coin. A first-rate example in its grade. Only 2,000 struck. Pop 49; 5 finer; 4 in 66; 1 in 67. (PCGS # 2037) .
Background: During this year Congress was considering the bill which became the Act of February 21, 1857. This authorized cents weighing 72 grains to be struck from an alloy of 88% copper and 12% nickel. These were intended for the redemption of the large cents and the fractional parts of the Spanish and Mexican dollars, which had been passing freely throughout the country for a long time.
According to the Judd Pattern book, "During this period the Melter and Refiner, Booth, had continued the experiments, trying to find a better alloy for the cent, under instructions from the Director of the Mint, J. R. Snowden."
Judd goes on to report, "After the dies for the flying eagle cent were prepared Mr. Snowden wrote to Mr. Guthrie on Dec. 4, 1856 as follows: 'Sir, I have caused a few hundred specimens of the proposed new cent to be struck. It would probably aid us in our efforts to deliver the Country from the present large and unsightly coin if a specimen were furnished to each member of Congress. If you concur in this suggestion I will deliver the department from the trouble of distributing them and send them to the Members of Congress, or transmit them to you for distribution if you prefer that course.'".
Estimated Value $22,000 - 24,000.
|
| |
| Realized $25,300 |
