This year is marked by the creation of the popular flying eagle small cent of the diameter of today's one cent pieces J180/P218 Several thousand were made in both proof and business strike formats for several years beyond 1856. They were likely a profitable venture for the mint. Because of the quantity produced, many collectors consider this to be a regular issue and not a pattern. Additional designs for this piece are also listed under this year but may have actually been made in 1858. These include the dateless J179/P207 and this design with a reverse used in 1858 and 1859. J184/P220. Half cent pieces were also made in 2 different copper-nickel alloys J177/P205. Photos used courtesy of Teletrade, Early American History Auctions, Superior and Ebay. Go to Previous Page Or Next Page