1787 Fugio Cent - United States

Coin Details

Description

Classified within the Newman catalog system as the standard "United States" type, this 1787 Fugio cent represents the most common legend arrangement among the various reverse die types used in America's first federally authorized coinage. The reverse reads UNITED STATES in the normal word order around the circumference of the thirteen-link chain encircling the central motto WE ARE ONE — each link representing one of the original states in a visual metaphor for national unity. The obverse displays the iconic sundial beneath a radiant sun, accompanied by the Latin FUGIO ("I fly," referring to the swift passage of time) and Benjamin Franklin's exhortation MIND YOUR BUSINESS, a dual message encouraging both industriousness and fiscal prudence. Authorized by the Continental Congress on April 21, 1787, and contracted to James Jarvis, Fugio cents were struck at the New Haven, Connecticut mint — though Jarvis's failure to deliver the contracted copper supply and his subsequent flight to avoid creditors left the coinage incomplete. Despite being the most common Fugio cent type, the United States legend variety remains genuinely scarce in absolute terms due to the limited total production, estimated at roughly 400,000 pieces, combined with over two centuries of attrition through circulation wear, loss, and destruction. For collectors entering the Fugio cent series, the United States standard type offers the most accessible entry point to owning a piece of America's first national coinage.

Rarity Notes

The most common Fugio cent type, though still scarce in absolute terms.

Cross References

Newman; United States, standard type