The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is a pattern issue (Judd 180/Pollock 212, 215 and 218) struck in considerable numbers. Approximately 700 pieces were produced for distribution to members of the Congress and Senate to show the proposed design and format. The Mint later produced approximately 1,500 restrikes in proof format for collectors during 1857 and 1858.
After the Mint began selling the examples of the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent to collectors, it was collected as a regular issue of the series. Today, the coins have a listing included in the Red Book along side with the regular circulation issues.
The majority of pieces are encountered in uncirculated condition with either brilliant or proof surfaces. Although as a popular issue, demand exists for pieces in any grade. While this coin is considered to be a rarity by most collectors, it is in fact the most available pattern ever made in the United States.
