1857 1C Flying Eagle. Proof-60 (NGC).

A very rare coin in any grade, this one has a few minor flyspecks on both sides and patches of hairlines in the fields. The strike is absolute and precise, with some doubling on the eagle's beak and wing along with UNIT(ED) much like that seen on the Snow-5 variety of this date. Even the eagle's tail feathers are strong, a feature lacking on most Mint State examples. Light tan with a few tinges of darker tan mixed in. Although the actual number of Proofs was not recorded, not quite 100 (at most) of this date have been graded between the services, a tiny sum compared to the ever popular 1856 Flying Eagle cent. Diagnostic closed E of ONE, while the E of CENT is much more open with the serifs well separated. With most Proof survivors commanding five figure sums, this example is certainly compelling for collectors who need this elusive type coin.