1856 1C Flying Eagle, S-9 PR65 Certification #45371215, PCGS #147890

1856 1C PR65 PCGS CAC EEPS, Snow-9 Die Variety. Provenance: Ex Joseph P. Gorrell Collection. Considered by leading expert Rick Snow as a strong contender for the finest surviving example of the Snow-9 die variety, as he noted in two auction descriptions (Heritage, lot #3291, Nov 19, 2020 -and- Heritage, lot #4408, Jan 8, 2003): "Richard Snow believes that this Gem could easily be the finest survivor of the Snow-9 die pair." Close examination reveals minor strike-through debris on the "1" and "O" of "ONE" on the reverse. These subtle characteristics, often mistaken for post-strike marks, were actually imparted at the time this coin was minted and should not have held back this coin's grade. Beyond those characteristics which should not be grade-limiting, this coin is very nearly perfect. The Snow-9 die variety represents the most common of the 1856 Flying Eagle cents. The majority of the Restrike Proofs produced for collectors well after the initial 1856 strikings are attributed to the Snow-9 dies. This later, more substantial production occurred as collector interest in the original, VIP-distributed 1856 Flying Eagles grew. This PR65 CAC Snow-9 offers a fascinating perspective on the collecting history of this early small cent. While the Snow-9 is the most readily encountered variety, finding one of such exceptional quality, potentially the finest of its kind, underscores the enduring appeal and meticulous study of these historic coins.