United States 1857 cent KM-85

from the Molly Malone Collection

The "Flying Eagle" cent replaced the unpopular large cent in 1857 altho both types were struck that year. Large numbers were struck 1857-58 and the design was popular but mint officials didn't like its striking characteristics. In 1859, the Indian Head cent was introduced and, after a reverse modification in 1860, was used until 1909. Prototype "Flying Eagle" cents were produced in 1856 (over a thousand are known to exist, so it's hard to call them "patterns") but are today expensive.

Reported Mintage: 17,450,000.

Specification: 4.67 g, copper-nickel, 19 mm diameter.

Catalog reference: KM 85.

Source:

• Alexander, David T., Coin World Comprehensive Catalog & Encyclopedia of United States Coins, Sidney, OH: Amos Press, 1995.
• Breen, Walter H., Walter Breen's Complete Encyclopedia of U. S. and Colonial Coins, New York: Doubleday, 1987.
• Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 9th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
• Yeoman, R. S., and Kenneth Bressett (ed.), A Guide Book of United States Coins, 65th Ed., Atlanta, GA: Whitman Publishing, 2011.

Link to:

• 1856 "flying eagle" cent
• 1857 gold dollar
• 1857 3 cents
• 1857-C 5 dollars
• 1857-O 20 dollars
• 1858 "Flying Eagle" cent
• Coins and currency dated 1857
• return to United States Flying Eagle Cents (1856-1858)