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Small Cents: Flying Eagle (1856-58) Auctions

The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent can be categorized into three main varieties; the original pieces struck for Mint and government purposes in 1856 & early 1857, the first restrikes in 1858 which was meant for collectors, and finally the second restrikes in 1860.

Small Cents Through the Ages

Small cents were issued first in 1856. During this period, the large cents and the half cent which was used at that time started to be a burden to the US government. Not only were they too large but the cost of making them already exceeded the value. Also, the US government wanted the citizens to stop using the Spanish and English denominations and instead use the American coinage standard. […]