1858 Flying Eagle Cent – Small Letters | America's First Small Penny
The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent Small Letters is one of the most significant coins in American numismatic history. As part of the first small-size cent series issued by the United States Mint, it replaced the large copper cents that had circulated for decades, marking a major change in U.S. coinage. Designed by James B. Longacre, the obverse features a soaring eagle in flight, while the reverse displays the denomination ONE CENT within a laurel wreath.
The 1858 issue was produced in two distinct varieties: Large Letters and Small Letters. The Small Letters variety is easily identified by the noticeable separation between the letters A and M in AMERICA, making it a popular and collectible subtype. This revised design featured lower relief and smaller lettering in an effort to improve striking quality and extend die life.
Containing 88% copper and 12% nickel, the Flying Eagle Cent weighs 4.67 grams and measures 19 mm in diameter. With a design used for only three years (1856–1858), the Flying Eagle Cent remains a favorite among collectors and serves as the historic bridge between the large cents and the Indian Head Cent series.
Whether you're building a type set or adding a key early small cent to your collection, the 1858 Small Letters Flying Eagle Cent represents an important milestone in the evolution of American coinage.
