1787 Fugio Cent - New Haven Restrike, Copper

Coin Details

Description

Struck in copper — the same metal as the original 1787 production — this New Haven restrike was produced circa 1858-1860 from rediscovered or copied dies at the original Fugio cent production site. Copper creates the closest approximation to originals among New Haven restrikes, which also exist in brass, silver, and other metals. Distinguished from originals by typically sharper strike quality, different planchet characteristics, and later die states, copper restrikes capture the authentic design with high fidelity. The New Haven restrike phenomenon represents a fascinating numismatic chapter: when original dies were found in New Haven during the late 1850s, collector demand made new production commercially viable. The obverse features Benjamin Franklin's sundial with FUGIO and MIND YOUR BUSINESS; the reverse shows thirteen chain links with WE ARE ONE. The original Fugio cent, authorized by Congress on April 21, 1787, was the first coin bearing the United States name. Copper restrikes are the most common metal for New Haven restrikes — the most accessible entry point for restrike collectors, though still scarce in absolute terms.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The most available metal for New Haven restrikes.

Cross References

Newman; New Haven Restrike, copper