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The Flying Eagle Cent of 1858 with Large Letters, in the About Good (AG) condition, offers a captivating glimpse into the history of American coinage. This coin, with its iconic design and historical significance, provides a tangible connection to a pivotal era in the nation's numismatic evolution. The Flying Eagle Cent of 1858 is part of a short-lived but influential series that followed the introduction of its predecessor in 1857. These coins represented a departure from the large and cumbersome one-cent pieces of the past, aiming for a smaller, more practical coin that would address the needs of commerce in a growing nation.
On the obverse side of the coin, a majestic bald eagle is depicted in flight. With its wings gracefully spread and talons extended, the eagle symbolizes the strength and freedom of the United States. Encircling the eagle, the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" proudly proclaims the nation's identity and unity. The reverse side of the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent features a central wreath of laurel leaves, which symbolize victory and honor. Within the wreath, the denomination "ONE CENT" is prominently displayed, emphasizing the coin's fractional value within the U.S. monetary system. The Large Letters variety of this coin is distinguished by the bold and clearly defined letters in the inscription.
The minting process for the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent involved the use of a copper-nickel alloy, which replaced the pure copper composition of earlier large cents. This change in composition not only reduced the coin's size but also made it more durable and resistant to wear. The adoption of the copper-nickel alloy set the stage for the eventual introduction of the small cent, which remains in use today.
Regarding mintage figures, the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent with Large Letters was produced exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint, and its mintage reached approximately 24,600,000 pieces. While this figure may seem substantial, it is important to note that many of these coins have not survived the passage of time, making well-preserved examples highly sought after by collectors.
The denomination of the Flying Eagle Cent, one cent, reflected its fractional value within the U.S. monetary system during the mid-19th century. At that time, a single cent held greater purchasing power than it does in today's economy, making these coins essential for everyday transactions and commerce.
Now, let's explore the specific condition of the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent in the "About Good" grade. Coins in About Good condition exhibit significant wear due to extensive circulation. On the obverse, the feathers of the eagle are heavily worn, and the overall design shows noticeable flattening. The date may be partially worn or barely visible. On the reverse side, the laurel wreath and central shield also exhibit significant wear, with inscriptions remaining faint but legible.
In conclusion, the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent with Large Letters in About Good condition is a numismatic treasure with a storied history and distinctive design. Its role in the transition from large copper cents to smaller, more practical coinage is a testament to its importance. This coin serves as a tangible link to a crucial moment in American coinage history and continues to be cherished by collectors who appreciate its historical and aesthetic significance.