How to Spot Rare Errors on 1858 Flying Eagle Cent: A Collector’s Guide to Die Varieties

Introduction

Most people overlook the subtle details that can transform a common coin into a rarity worth thousands. The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent represents one of the most captivating periods in American numismatics, marking the transition from large cents to the smaller format we recognize today. While this particular specimen appears to be a beautiful Mint State example, understanding the error varieties and die variations from this era can completely transform your collecting approach and potentially lead to extraordinary discoveries.

Historical Significance of the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent

The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent holds a special place in American coinage history as the first small cent produced by the United States Mint. Struck in copper-nickel composition (88% copper, 12% nickel), these coins represented a significant departure from the large copper cents that had been in circulation since 1793. The design, featuring a flying eagle on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse, was created by James B. Longacre and remained in production for only two years before being replaced by the Indian Head cent in 1859.

What makes the 1858 date particularly interesting for error collectors is that it represents the first full year of production for this new denomination. The Mint was still working out production kinks, and this experimentation period led to several notable varieties and potential error coins that collectors should be aware of.

Identifying Key Markers: Die Cracks and Varieties

When examining an 1858 Flying Eagle Cent, several key markers can indicate valuable die varieties or errors. Die cracks are among the most common and collectible varieties from this era. These appear as raised lines on the coin’s surface, created when the die itself develops cracks during the striking process. On Flying Eagle cents, common locations for die cracks include:

• Through the eagle’s wing feathers
• Around the date and LIBERTY inscription
• Along the rim, particularly near the 12 o’clock position
• Through the wreath elements on the reverse

The specimen in question shows excellent eye appeal with what appears to be a solid MS64 grade. However, even high-grade examples can harbor valuable die varieties that aren’t immediately apparent without careful examination under magnification.

Double Die Varieties to Look For

Double die errors occur when the die receives multiple impressions from the hub, creating a doubled appearance on the design elements. While not as common on 1858 Flying Eagle cents as on some other denominations, several notable doubled die varieties have been documented. When examining your coin, pay special attention to:

• The date numerals, particularly the “1” and “8”
• The letters in “LIBERTY” on the ribbon
• The eagle’s wing feathers and tail
• The wreath elements on the reverse

Even minor doubling can significantly increase a coin’s value, especially when found on a high-grade specimen like the one being discussed.

Mint Mark Variations and Production Anomalies

While the Flying Eagle cent series doesn’t include mint marks (as all were struck at Philadelphia), there are still important production variations to consider. The 1858 date saw the production of both large and small letter varieties on the reverse. The large letter variety features more prominent lettering in “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE CENT,” while the small letter variety has more delicate typography.

Additionally, some 1858 Flying Eagle cents show evidence of die polishing or repolishing, which can create subtle variations in the design’s appearance. These variations, while not errors per se, can help identify specific die states and potentially more valuable specimens.

Authentication and Grading Considerations

The specimen being discussed has been praised for its “original surfaces” and “excellent eye-appeal,” with collectors suggesting it grades around MS64. When authenticating and grading Flying Eagle cents, several factors are crucial:

Original copper-nickel composition should show a distinctive silver-gray color that may have toned to various shades of gray, gold, or even light blue over time. Any signs of cleaning, dipping, or environmental damage can significantly impact both grade and value.

The coin’s strike quality is particularly important for this series, as the copper-nickel alloy was harder than pure copper and sometimes resulted in incomplete strikes. The specimen appears to have excellent strike characteristics, which is a positive indicator for both grade and potential value.

Specific Errors to Look For

Beyond the common varieties, several specific errors can be found on 1858 Flying Eagle cents:

Off-Center Strikes

Off-center strikes occur when the planchet isn’t properly centered during striking. While not extremely common on this series, they do exist and can command significant premiums, especially in higher grades.

Broadstrikes

Broadstruck coins lack the reeded edge typically found on these cents. These errors occur when the collar die fails to engage during striking, allowing the metal to flow outward beyond the normal diameter.

Die Caps and Brockages

Die cap errors occur when a coin sticks to the die and strikes subsequent planchets, creating brockage errors on the following coins. These dramatic errors are quite rare for the Flying Eagle series but highly prized when found.

Planchet Errors

Various planchet errors can affect Flying Eagle cents, including clipped planchets, laminations, and wrong planchet strikes. The copper-nickel composition makes these errors somewhat less common than on pure copper coins, but they do exist.

Value Guide and Market Considerations

Based on the positive feedback from experienced collectors, this MS64 specimen appears to be a high-quality example with excellent eye appeal. For 1858 Flying Eagle cents in MS64 condition, typical values range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the specific variety and overall eye appeal.

However, if this coin were to exhibit any of the rare die varieties or errors mentioned above, the value could increase substantially. For instance:

• Major die cracks or doubled dies: +20% to +100% premium
• Off-center strikes (10% or greater): 2x to 5x normal value
• Broadstrikes: 3x to 10x normal value
• Significant die varieties (like the large/small letter varieties): 10% to 50% premium

Advanced Collecting Strategies

Several collectors in the discussion noted how addictive the Indian Head cent series can be, and this applies equally to the Flying Eagle cents that preceded them. Building a comprehensive collection of 1858 varieties requires patience and attention to detail. Consider these advanced strategies:

1. Focus on acquiring coins with original surfaces and natural toning
2. Study die state progressions to understand how varieties develop
3. Network with other collectors to share information about rare varieties
4. Invest in proper magnification equipment for detailed examination
5. Consider third-party authentication for potentially valuable varieties

Conclusion

The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent represents an excellent entry point into error coin collecting, combining historical significance with the potential for discovering valuable varieties. The specimen being discussed showcases the excellent eye appeal and original surfaces that collectors prize, grading at a solid MS64 level.

Whether you’re a seasoned error coin hunter or just beginning your numismatic journey, understanding the specific markers, varieties, and errors associated with this series can transform your collecting experience. The key is developing a trained eye for the subtle details that separate common specimens from true rarities worth thousands of dollars.

As one collector wisely noted, this series can be quite addictive. Start with quality examples like the one being discussed, but always keep an eye out for those tiny details that could indicate something truly special. Happy hunting!

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