Lot 3012

Flying Eagle Cents 1856 1C Snow-3 MS63 ANACS. The 1856 is the first and rarest date of the small cent series, and examples have been hotly contested by collectors since its introduction. Indeed, the 1856 Flying Eagle cent was so desired during the late 1850s that it was unofficially restruck by the U.S. Mint in proof format, typically from Snow-9 dies. But the present lot is an original striking in business format from Snow-3 dies, showing light repunching on the 5 in the date. The 1 in the date is centered between dentils. Snow-3 examples are believed to be those coins distributed to congressmen to promote passage of the legislation. The dusky olive-gold surfaces of this coin are sharply struck, smooth, and satiny. A subtle retained lamination is noted on the right ear of corn. Housed in a small-sized holder. Listed among the 100 Greatest U.S. Coins. www.HA.com/TexasAuctioneerLicenseNotice https://coins.ha.com/itm/flying-eagle-cents/1856-1c-snow-3-ms63-anacs/a/1393-3012.s?type=DA-DMC-CoinArchives-USCoins-1393-04292026 HID02906262019 © 2026 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved Certification number: ANACS 939120