1856 Flying Eagle. Snow-9. Proof-64 (PCGS).；Lovely Choice surfaces with intermingled autumn-orange and tan-rose patina. Fully struck with a vibrant appearance, an otherwise satin finish reveals subtle semi-reflective qualities when the coin is viewed with the aid of a direct light. A popular and desirable rarity, easily among the most famous of all small cent issues and avidly sought since the date of its inception. The Bowers reference gives a <em>circulation strike</em> mintage of "1,000 or more (estimate)," most of them probably distributed to members of Congress and "friends of the Mint" during the year of issue, with a Proof estimate for the date given by Bowers as "1,500 to 2,500 pieces." The Proofs were struck slightly later, most from the Snow-9 die pairing, and primarily went into the numismatic market. The 1856 Flying Eagle cent has long been a fixture on the numismatic scene, and examples of the issue are always met enthusiastically whenever they come to auction.
