Fugio Cent (1787)
Obverse (Front) Design
Reverse (Back) Design
Coin Specifications
Date Range
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Designer / Engraver
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Precious Metal Content
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History & Background
The Fugio Cent is widely regarded as the first coin authorized by the United States government. On April 21, 1787, the Congress of the Confederation approved a contract with James Jarvis to strike copper coins of the federal standard, at a time when the young nation had no national mint of its own.
Design and meaning
The design is traditionally associated with Benjamin Franklin. The front shows a sundial, the word FUGIO (Latin for “I fly”) and the motto MIND YOUR BUSINESS, a reminder that time passes quickly. The back shows thirteen linked rings, one for each state, around the words WE ARE ONE.
How the coins were made
The coins were produced under private contract rather than at a federal mint. Production is generally linked to New Haven, Connecticut, and to New York. Because several sets of dies were used, collectors study a number of varieties, including pieces where the legend UNITED STATES is transposed to STATES UNITED and pieces with different styles of sun rays.
Later restrikes made from original dies also exist and are collected separately, so correct attribution matters when you buy.
Collecting Tips
- Learn the main die varieties before buying; they affect value and rarity.
- Check for cleaning, corrosion and surface porosity, which are common on early copper.
- For higher-value pieces, buy coins certified by a major grading service.
- Ask the seller whether a coin is an original or a later restrike.
Photographs by Grade
Fugio Cent (1787) — Photographs by Grade
G4
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fugio Cent (1787)
Is the Fugio Cent the first U.S. coin?
It is generally regarded as the first coin authorized by the United States government, approved by Congress in 1787. Earlier colonial and state coins were issued by other authorities.
What does Fugio mean?
Fugio is Latin for "I fly". Together with the sundial, it reminds the reader that time flies, which fits the motto Mind Your Business.
Who designed the Fugio Cent?
The design is traditionally credited to Benjamin Franklin, although the exact role of each person involved is still discussed by historians.
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