My Flying Eagle Cent Win: A Birthday Surprise That Just Arrived

I recently won a stunning Flying Eagle cent in an online auction, and it just arrived in the mail—what a fantastic birthday gift to myself! After setting aside some cash back for a splurge, I couldn’t resist bidding, and now I’m thrilled to share the details of this beauty with fellow collectors.

The Thrill of Adding a Flying Eagle to My Collection

As a longtime numismatist, I’ve always been drawn to early U.S. coinage, and the Flying Eagle series holds a special place in my heart. Winning this coin felt like a personal victory, especially since I snagged it just after my birthday. It’s a reminder that collecting isn’t just about the hunt; it’s about celebrating milestones with pieces that tell a story.

Examining the Coin’s Stunning Features

When I unboxed it, I was blown away by the coin’s condition. Here’s what stood out:

• Sharp Strike: The details on the eagle and wreath are exceptionally crisp, even better than some MS examples I’ve handled.
• Beautiful Color: It has a lovely, natural patina with hints of brown and copper that give it character without detracting from the surfaces.
• Pristine Surfaces: Unlike many coins in this series, there are no distracting marks or wear; it’s remarkably clean, which is rare for Flying Eagles.

In my 48 years of collecting, I’ve owned a PCGS XF45 and even a holed UNC, but this one, graded AU55 with a CAC sticker, tops them all for eye appeal. The luster and detail preservation are simply outstanding.

Grading Insights and Market Value Considerations

One big question I pondered was whether to crack it out for regrading. Here’s my practical take based on experience:

• Undergraded Potential: Some collectors might argue it could hit AU58 due to the strong strike, but the CAC sticker adds a premium that often signifies top-tier quality for the grade.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Upgrading to AU58 could net $100-$150 more based on recent eBay sales and Greysheet data (AU55 CAC around $415 vs. AU58 non-CAC at $455). However, grading fees and shipping could eat up that gain, making it less lucrative.
• CAC Premium: That green bean sticker boosts value and market confidence, so removing it might not be worth the risk for a marginal upgrade.

For anyone in a similar spot, my advice is to weigh the fees against potential gains and consider how the current holder enhances the coin’s desirability. Upper AU grades like this are often undervalued gems in the market.

Why I’m Keeping It As Is

After much deliberation, I decided to leave it in its holder. The combination of the CAC sticker and the coin’s sheer beauty makes it a keeper. It’s not just about the numbers—it’s about appreciating a piece that’s struck so well it could pass for mint state in hand. Plus, with Flying Eagles being tough to find in this condition, I’m cherishing it as a centerpiece of my collection. If you’re eyeing one yourself, focus on strike quality over minor grade bumps; that’s where the real value lies!