1787 Fugio Cent – “States United” / 4-Cinq Variety PCGS MS65 Brown – CAC Approved

1787 Fugio Cent – “States United” / 4-Cinq Variety
PCGS MS65 Brown – CAC Approved

One of the most historically significant coins in early American numismatics, the 1787 Fugio Cent is widely regarded as the first official coin of the United States. Authorized by the Continental Congress on April 21, 1787, the Fugio Cent was designed by Benjamin Franklin, whose influence is seen in the coin’s famous motto “Mind Your Business.”

The obverse features a sundial with the word FUGIO (“I fly” in Latin, referring to time flying) along with the admonition “Mind Your Business,” a phrase encouraging diligence and productivity. The reverse displays 13 linked rings, each representing one of the original states, surrounding the central inscription “WE ARE ONE.” Together, the design serves as a symbolic message of unity for the young nation.

This example is the “States United” / 4-Cinq variety, one of the collectible varieties within the Fugio Cent series. The term “Cinq” refers to distinctive punch characteristics used in the lettering, which specialists use to identify die varieties among Fugio cents.

Graded MS65 Brown by Professional Coin Grading Service, this coin sits firmly in the Gem Mint State category, displaying excellent preservation, strong strike detail, and attractive original brown surfaces. The piece is further distinguished by a Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC) approval, confirming it as a premium example for the assigned grade.

Population data underscores its scarcity: only 20 examples have been certified in MS65 Brown by PCGS, with just 7 graded higher. For collectors of early American copper, Fugio cents, or historically important colonial coinage, pieces at this level of quality are seldom encountered.

• Date: 1787

• Denomination: Fugio Cent (1C)

• Variety: States United, 4-Cinq

• Grade: PCGS MS65 Brown

• CAC: Approved

• PCGS #: 883

• PCGS Population: 20 in MS65BN, only 7 higher

• PCGS Price Guide: $9,500

A superb Gem-quality example of America’s first coin, combining historical significance, rarity in high grade, and the added assurance of CAC approval.

25234120  0226A4000