1858 Flying Eagle Cent. Small Letters, Low Leaves (Style of 1858), Type II. MS-66 (PCGS).A gorgeous that would do equally well in a high quality type set or advanced Flying Eagle and Indian cent collection. Intense satin luster mingles with vivid pale tan patina, both sides also revealing subtle pink, apricot and powder-blue highlights as the coin dips into a light. The surfaces are expectably smooth for the assigned grade, and the strike is razor sharp over even the most intricate design elements. Impressive in all regards, this enchanting coin is sure to sell for a premium bid.<p>The second year 1858 Flying Eagle cent was produced in even greater numbers than the 1857, 24,600,000 vs. 17,450,000 circulation strikes. Both issues are of similar availability in numismatic circles, worn survivors plentiful and even Mint State coins readily obtainable in grades through MS-64. On the other hand, the type as a whole is scarce in MS-65 and rare any finer. This is one of the finest examples of the 1858 Small Letters known to PCGS, its offering in the present sale representing a fleeting bidding opportunity for the quality-conscious numismatist.<p>Although the two obverse hub varieties of the 1858 Flying Eagle cent are most easily distinguished by the size of the letters in the legend, in reality the design of the Small Letters has been reworked in its entirety. In addition to spacing between the letters AM in AMERICA, this variety is distinguished from its Large Letters predecessor by shallower relief to the eagle with flatter feathers and the tail raised only minimally above the surrounding field area. Most circulation strikes of this variety are paired with the Type II Low Leaves Reverse hub, as here.From the ESM Collection.
