Copyright © PeerMetals 2026
1856 Flying Eagle cent value guide -- the famous pre-authorization pattern issue, and grade-by-grade prices.
Note: a full grade-by-grade breakdown for this coin is still being compiled.
Not an officially authorized circulation issue for 1856 -- small cents weren't legally authorized until the Act of February 21, 1857. The 1856-dated coin is technically a pattern/trial piece that collectors have long treated as a full member of the regular series.
Most surviving proof 1856 cents are believed to be later restrikes made in 1859-1860, not the original 1856 strikes -- the original strikes account for most of the worn, circulated survivors instead.
Live listings matching the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent
Other dates and varieties in this series
Condition drives price more than any other factor on a coin like this — two examples of the same date can be worth very different amounts depending on wear and authentication.
The value table above is organized by grade for a reason — a coin's condition, not just its date, sets where it lands on that range. If you're not sure how to grade, a seller's photos and description should call it out.
A professionally graded (PCGS/NGC) example carries more certainty than a raw coin, and usually a small premium for it. Both are fine to buy — just factor grading into the price you're comparing.
Prices vary between individual sellers here, not one retailer's price list. Sort by price, check the seller's Metal Points and order history, and message the seller if photos don't show enough detail to grade confidently.
About the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent
Value depends heavily on condition. A well-worn example brings closer to $9,332, while an uncirculated one can reach $30,623 or more.
Not an officially authorized circulation issue for 1856 -- small cents weren't legally authorized until the Act of February 21, 1857. The 1856-dated coin is technically a pattern/trial piece that collectors have long treated as a full member of the regular series.
For anything you believe is a key date or an error, professional grading protects both buyer and seller by settling condition and authenticity before money changes hands.
List it free on PeerMetals — flat 2.75% seller fee, zero listing fees, 1–3 day payouts.
