1856 1C MS65 PCGS....

Click the image to load the highest resolution version.

Sold on Jan 7, 2010 for:

$71,875.00 Bid Source: HA.com/Live bidder

Get one of these:

Share this lot

Track Item Printable Auction Results

Sell One of These

Description

Auction Info

Guides & Info

Description

Prooflike MS65 1856 Flying Eagle Cent
Ex: Walsh, Snow-3, Die Stage A

1856 1C MS65 PCGS. Ex: Joshua and Ally Walsh. Snow-3. Die Stage A. The obverse die of this variety is easily identifiable by repunching on the 5 in the date, although one will need a loupe to discern this feature on the present example. This die was also used to strike coins of the Snow-1 and Snow-10 varieties. The most evident reverse diagnostics are the high leaves at the C and T in CENT. This reverse die was also used to strike Snow-8.
According to Snow (2001), examples of Snow-3 are the second most frequently encountered 1856 Flying Eagle cents in today's market. This die pair was used from 1856 through early 1857. The first coins produced were copper die trial pieces (Judd-281, Pollock-213), of which only two examples are accounted for today. The Mint then struck 634-800 business strike 1856 Flying Eagle cents of the Snow-3 die marriage using copper-nickel planchets. Snow asserts that these coins were prepared for two purposes: to test the press and dies in a simulated business strike run, and to provide examples of the proposed copper-nickel cent to members of Congress.
The first copper-nickel examples of Snow-3 that emerged from the dies are prooflike in finish with moderately reflective mirrors in the fields. These coins are known as Die Stage A, and they can be easily mistaken for proofs by collectors who are not aware of the other diagnostics for Snow-3. All examples of this variety lack the completeness of strike that proof 1856 Flying Eagle cents display. The present coin, while certainly sharp in overall detail, exhibits a little softness of strike over the eagle's breast feathers. In addition, the reverse devices, particularly the cotton leaves in the wreath, have rounded edges. As befits the die stage, this coin displays moderately reflective fields. The color is a warm, original, honey-gold shade with swirls of medium tan and lilac patina here and there. Both sides are free of bothersome handling marks, although a tiny carbon fleck in the obverse field above the date is noted.
From 1856-1860, the Philadelphia Mint produced 659-850 business strike 1856 Flying Eagle cents during two distinct striking periods. During the same time, the Mint delivered 1,025-1,550 proofs. With a lower original mintage, the business strikes, which are of the Snow-3, Snow-6, Snow-7, Snow-8, and Snow-10 varieties, are more highly prized by Flying Eagle cent specialists. This Gem is certified in a green label holder.(Registry values: N10218)

Coin Index Numbers: (PCGS# 2013, Greysheet# 15310)

Weight: 4.70 grams

Metal: 88% Copper, 12% Nickel

View Certification Details from PCGS