The rising cost of copper in the 1850s brought a major reduction in the size of the cent. The first small-size 1¢ coins were the Flying Eagle cents minted in 88% copper and 12% nickel as a pattern in 1856 and for circulation during 1857-1858. Designed by James B. Longacre, these short-lived coins feature an eagle in flight on the obverse and a wreath of corn, wheat, cotton and tobacco surrounding the inscription one cent on the reverse. Large Letter and Small Letter varieties were struck in 1858. Learn More
