1858 1C Small Letters Flying Eagle Cent PCGS MS66 (PHOTO SEAL & CAC)

Superb Gem Unc (15: 5,5,5). An outstanding example with dazzling luster and nearly flawless surfaces. This is a very tough date to find in such a high grade. In looking at other examples graded MS66 and MS66+, I feel this is one of the top five examples.

The design was switched mid-year from the Longacre's Large Letters style to Assistant Engraver Anthony Paquet's Small Letters design, so it is a design issued for only half a year. The design was changed to reduce the relief so that dies would last longer. After the change was made, it was found that the small letters did not stand up well to the die making process. Many dies are found with the letters strengthened. The tedious process of fixing broken letters in the legend must have hastened the abandonment of the design altogether.