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1858 1C Small Letters PR65 NGC. High Leaves Reverse. Snow-PR1. The Small Letters variant of the 1858

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / US Coins Start Price:NA Estimated At:945.00 - 1,260.00 USD
1858 1C Small Letters PR65 NGC. High Leaves Reverse. Snow-PR1. The Small Letters variant of the 1858
1858 1C Small Letters PR65 NGC. High Leaves Reverse. Snow-PR1. The Small Letters variant of the 1858 Flying Eagle Cent is believed to have been the work of Assistant Engraver Anthony C. Paquet. Most collectors know to look at the AM in AMERICA to distinguish between the Small Letters and Large Letters coins, but Snow (2001) also notes the eagle's head is boxier and its feathers are sharper on examples of the former variety. The ultimate representative of either variant of the 1858 Cent must surely be one of the rare proofs. We do not know exactly how many specimen strikings of the Small Letters version were originally prepared by the Philadelphia Mint, but current numismatic wisdom points to an estimate of 100 pieces. Noted Flying Eagle and Indian Cent authority Rick Snow opines that no more than 75 examples are extant, a figure that, if correct, would place the 1858 Small Letters about on par with the proof 1857 in terms of overall rarity. It should be noted that proof Flying Eagle Cents from both 1857 and 1858 are considerably more difficult to locate than their more widely publicized brethren dated 1856. Both sides of this Gem present expectantly well for the assigned grade. The otherwise medium tan color yields to a patchwork of beautiful pastel-lilac and pale green iridescence at the most direct angles. Moderately reflectivity qualities in the fields are also appreciable as the coin rotates under the light. In addition to these features, pinpoint striking definition is fully enjoyable in the virtual absence of distracting handling marks. This obviously important Cent comes with an NGC Photo Proof. Important notice: We expect to be auctioning lots at the rate of 200-250 per hour. On occasion eBay live bid software cannot keep up with the pace of the auctions where 4-5 lots per minute can hammer down, so we recommend that you place a realistic absentee bid now as insurance to avoid disappointment. Also please note that all Heritage/CAA lots purchased through eBay Live carry a 20% Buyer's Premium. Please make sure you read the Terms and Conditions.