The flying eagle cent of 1855 with the reverse previously used in 1854 with 2 leaves under the 'E' in 'States'. This is one of the first attempts to create a smaller copper cent. These were apparently struck early in 1855 as per the notation below from the Eckfeldt journal. "Flying eagle cent struck in Feb 1855, the diameter 1 inch the tail a little small in the wreath; other ways (sic otherwise) the same as those of 1854". Examples were struck as follows: Copper/Bronze J172 & J173/P198. Both originals and restrikes are known and are extremely rare showing any red color. Oroide J174/P199. Its existence is unconfirmed. The Mickley example, lot 2192, may be J169/P194. Metallurgical analysis is recommended. Copper-nickel J174A/P200. The Mickley 2191-Bushnell example is listed in the reference books but this is not confirmed. This may be German silver or J170-J171/P195-P196 instead. Nickel J174A/P201. The Mickley 2190-Bushnell example is listed in the reference books but this is not confirmed. A coin described as steel AW201A was lot 868 in Reed 3/40 sale. This may be German silver or J167A,J170-J171/P195-P197 instead. Photo courtesy of Bowers and Merena. Eckfeldt journal image courtesy of Alan Meghrig.