February 2026 – The Fugio Cent (1787)
The Fugio cent, America’s first official coinage, was authorized by the Continental Congress in 1787 and struck by contractor James Jarvis under the Company for Coining Coppers. Collectors know it as a coin steeped in both history and variety.
- Design & Mottoes: Attributed to Benjamin Franklin, the obverse features a sundial with the Latin word “Fugio”(time flies) and the admonition “Mind Your Business.” The reverse displays 13 linked rings encircling “We Are One,” symbolizing colonial unity.
- Varieties: Specialists recognize over 50 die marriages, with Newman’s reference work still the standard for attribution. The “Club Rays” and “Pointed Rays” types are the primary divisions.
- Collectibility: Most surviving examples are well-worn, often with porosity from poor copper quality. Mid-grade coins (VF–XF) are scarce, while true AU and Mint State pieces are rare and command strong premiums.
- Market Notes: Common varieties in lower grades remain accessible for a few hundred dollars, making them an attainable entry into early American copper. Scarcer die marriages and high-end examples can reach into the tens of thousands at auction.
For type collectors, the Fugio cent is the cornerstone of U.S. federal coinage. For variety enthusiasts, it offers a deep field of study with affordable entry points and legendary rarities alike.
💡 Fugio Cent Fun Facts
- Franklin’s Motto: “Mind Your Business” wasn’t about gossip — it was Franklin’s advice to stay industrious.
- Time Flies: The word “Fugio” means “I fly” in Latin, paired with a sundial to remind citizens not to waste time.
- First Official Coin: Though the Continental Dollar of 1776 came earlier, the 1787 Fugio cent was the first coin officially authorized by Congress.
- Die Variety Heaven: Collectors recognize 50+ die marriages — a playground for specialists.
- Size Matters: About the diameter of today’s half dollar, it’s much larger than a modern cent.
