Among all mule die clash varieties, the 1857 Flying Eagle Cent clashed with the obverse die of a Liberty Head Double Eagle stands out as the most dramatic and visually striking. The immense size difference between the two host coins makes this clash particularly noteworthy, but what truly sets it apart is the unmistakable impression of Lady Liberty’s profile — clearly visible on the obverse of the Flying Eagle Cent. None of the other known mule die clashes exhibit such a bold or well-defined transfer of design, and this feature is often apparent even on low-grade specimens.
This variety was once thought to be the result of a mischievous Mint employee intentionally creating an error. However, it is now widely accepted that this clash, along with several similar mule die clashes, occurred unintentionally during routine Mint operations. Most involve Flying Eagle Cents, though one notable exception features a Liberty Seated Quarter. Documented varieties include the 1857 cent clashed with a half dollar (FS-402, S-9), the 1857 cent clashed with a quarter (FS-901), and the corresponding 1857 quarter clashed with a cent (FS-901).
Despite its notoriety, the total population of this variety remains uncertain. Some estimates suggest there are around 100 examples in existence. Currently, PCGS reports a population of 47 encapsulated examples, with the highest graded at AU58. High-grade specimens are exceedingly rare, and only a handful have appeared since the variety’s discovery. Occasionally, lower-grade pieces surface unattributed, offering savvy collectors the opportunity to cherry-pick one from dealer inventory or online listings. One trend, however, has remained consistent: prices for this variety have been steadily rising, and collector demand shows no signs of slowing.
While high-grade examples remain out of reach for many collectors, several more affordable pieces have appeared on the market in recent years, typically in the AG to VF range. Even in these lower grades, they often command substantial premiums, regularly selling for well above published price guide values, particularly in VF.
Auction results for this variety (Snow-7) from the past few years help illustrate its price increase. For example, at GreatCollections, four PCGS VF20 examples and one VF35 example have crossed the auction block. One of these coins — a specimen from the Michael Hasseler Collection — was sold twice: first in May 2022, and again in August 2024 (the latter representing acquisition by this author). Despite PCGS listing the VF20 guide price at $1,100 and VF35 at $2,000, final sale prices consistently exceeded these estimates.
In conclusion, the 1857 Flying Eagle cent clashed with the Liberty Head Double Eagle remains one of the most sought-after and compelling die clashes in U.S. numismatics. As more collectors become aware of its rarity and eye appeal, especially in lower grades, prices are likely to continue climbing, making now an opportune time to secure an example before they become even more elusive.