1856 1C Snow-3 PR66 PCGS. CAC....

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1856 Flying Eagle Cent, PR66
Popular Snow-3 Variety

1856 1C Snow-3 PR66 PCGS. CAC. Die Stage A. There is some confusion as to whether or not Snow-3 coins were struck in business strike or proof format. Both answers, it turns out, are supported by empirical evidence. Snow explains that about 700 1856 Flying Eagle cents were struck from dies with a repunched 5, High Leaves reverse, and a die scratch below the right ribbon end, as seen here. Presumably, such coins represent the 634 cents originally distributed to Congressmen for their approval. Their strike characteristics also suggest they "were likely struck as a simulated production run to test all the various problems which might occur on a coin of a new size, new metal, and new design," per Snow. Most circulation strikes feature softness over the breast feathers and rounded edges on the reverse design elements.

A small number of coins, however, display prooflike fields and strong strike definition. They are rarely encountered, but Snow believes that it "is entirely possible that a small pre-production run of proofs were struck prior to the non-proof run." An unknown number of Snow-3 proofs are included in the Population Report for the generic 1856 Flying Eagle cents PCGS number. Proofs explicitly attributed as Snow-3 amount to 26 grading events, with this Premium Gem tied for finest with one other submission (11/15).

Lightly frosted devices display pinpoint detail on the breast feathers and wreath elements, producing apparent proof contrast against reflective, essentially mark-free fields. Copper-gold color prevails over each side with glints of pale lilac and powder-blue contributing to the vivid eye appeal. This 1856 Snow-3 proof represents the pinnacle of desirability within the Flying Eagle cent series and should command much attention when the lot is called.
From The Tom & Jean Fore Collection.

Coin Index Numbers: (Variety PCGS# 47058, Base PCGS# 2037, Greysheet# 376130)

Weight: 4.70 grams

Metal: 88% Copper, 12% Nickel

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