Lot 917
1856 Flying Eagle Cent. PCGS graded Proof 64. PCGS holder 50186693. Well struck with semi reflective surfaces. Golden-tan in color. One of several outstanding 1856 Snow-9 Proofs in this sale, the surfaces display rich tan and steel-brown colors on the obverse that yield to medium brown shades on the reverse surrounded by the same deeper hues at the margin. This has a well-defined strike, including all feathers on the eagle, all leaves in the wreath of the reverse. This coin would make an attractive addition to a high quality Flying Eagle and Indian Small Cent collection, or it would more than satisfy a well-heeled collector's desire to own an historically significant rarity that has taken on legendary status in the field of American numismatics.
We have already referenced "Peter" the mint eagle elsewhere. The handsome Longacre first "cereal wreath" which is used on the flying eagle cents, the gold dollars (type 2 and 3) as well as the $3 gold pieces, is comprised of corn, wheat, cotton and tobacco. His second wreath, used later on numerous pattern coins as well as the half dimes and dimes during his tenure in office, is comprised of cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, corn, wheat and oak leaves. The flying eagle wreath is the first design of a cereal wreath created by the Mint's chief engraver, 1844-69. Pop 178; 52 finer: 47 in 65; 4 in 66; 1 in 67 (PCGS # 2037) .
Estimated Value $15,000 - 17,000.
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| Realized $17,825 |
