1857 Flying Eagle Cent. Snow-PR1. Proof-64 (PCGS).Outstanding Choice quality for this underrated rarity in the brief and challenging Proof Flying Eagle cent series of 1856 to 1858. Semi-reflective fields form a nice backdrop to fully impressed, razor sharp devices. Attractively toned, both sides exhibit an inviting blend of pinkish-tan and orange-apricot colors. Overall smooth in appearance with strong eye appeal. These are scarce, and much rarer than survivors of the more highly regarded Proof 1856 Flying Eagle cent. The exact number of Proof small cents produced in 1857 is unknown since the mintage was not recorded by Mint personnel at the time, although Rick Snow (2104) asserts that only about 50 specimens were distributed. Survivors usually appear on the open market only once in a long while, and the interested bidder would be wise to compete vigorously for the present offering.PCGS Population: 22; 16 finer in this category (all Proof-65).
