Lovers of American coin history will want to learn about Fugio penny coins. They were minted in 1787. The Fugio penny was one of the earliest penny coins of the United States and was designed by Benjamin Franklin, the famous inventor and statesman. Best of all, the coin hearkens back to the heady days of the defiant upstart country, and collectors with a patriotic bent are especially drawn to these pennies.
Fugio cents’ obverse design
The word “Fugio” means “I fly” in Latin. Fugio penny coins’ obverse (or front side) features a sundial in the center with the word “FUGIO” around the rim. This is thought to represent the idea that time flies – classic Benjamin Franklin. Below the sundial is the phrase “MIND YOUR BUSINESS,” which was meant to remind people to focus on their own affairs.
See also: Italy coins: Guide to collecting the coins of Italia
Fugio penny coins’ reverse side
The reverse (or back side) of the Fugio penny shows a thirteen-link chain, which represents the thirteen original colonies of the United States. In the middle of the chain is the phrase “WE ARE ONE,” a reminder that the colonies should work together as a united nation.
At the time the coin was minted, the thirteen colonies were still relatively new and working to establish themselves as a unified nation. The reminder to work together as one entity was an important message that helped to solidify the idea of a united United States. The notion persists to this day on American money.
Today, collectors of United States coins and early cents can still find Fugio pennies for sale in the marketplace. However, they are rare and examples in higher conditions can be quite expensive. Despite this, prices for certain Fugio penny coins can still within reach for collectors. You can even find modern-day replicas of Fugio cents for sale, if you just want to hold the coin and examine it for yourself.
