1787 Fugio Cent Coin Worth $100,000 – Rare Treasure Unveiled

Have you ever seen a 1787 coin that says Mind Your Business?

These unique coins, known as Fugio Cents, hold the distinction of being the first coins officially authorized by the United States government.

Although that sounds a bit technical, many numismatists recognize the Fugio Cent as the first coin ever issued by the authority of the U.S. federal government.

The famous “Mind Your Business” message on the Fugio Cent has made it one of the most iconic early American coins. While some of these rare coins can sell for well over $130,000, there are still affordable options available for collectors today.

It’s pretty incredible that you can still find such historic coins at prices that won’t break the bank.

Fugio Cent History

The Fugio Cent was produced through a private contract by James Jarvis, part-owner of what was known as the Connecticut Mint.

This mint, established in 1785, operated in the area where the Eli Whitney Museum and Workshop in New Haven stands today. It produced copper coins for the state of Connecticut, similar to coins issued by other states during that period.

Jarvis secured the federal contract to produce Fugio Cents by offering a $10,000 bribe to Colonel William Duer, then head of the Board of Treasury—a controversial move that nonetheless succeeded. Despite this, members of Congress were unaware of the deal’s unethical foundation. In 1787, the agreement was approved, and the design for the new copper coin was set.

The official design included:

• One side with 13 linked rings, symbolizing unity among the original colonies, encircling the phrase “We Are One” and “United States”
• The opposite side with a sundial and the word “Fugio,” along with the year “1787” and the motto “Mind Your Business”

The contract called for 300 tons of copper coins. However, due to a shortage of copper, only about 11,910 pounds were actually minted—resulting in approximately 554,741 coins.

Though produced in 1788, all coins were dated 1787.

What Does “Fugio” Mean?

The term Fugio is Latin and translates to “I flee” or “I fly.” It’s often interpreted as a reference to the passage of time—an idea supported by the sundial imagery on the coin.

Ben Franklin’s Link to the Fugio Cent

The 1787 “Mind Your Business” coin is often connected to Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, who is believed to have influenced the coin’s design.

Franklin, known for his wit and wide-ranging achievements—such as inventing bifocals, organizing the first fire department, and drafting the Declaration of Independence—was no stranger to clever phrases. That’s why many collectors refer to the Fugio Cent as the “Franklin Cent.”

This coin shares several design elements with Franklin’s earlier 1776 Continental Currency Dollar, including:

• The sundial and sun motif
• The use of “Fugio”
• The “Mind Your Business” inscription

Why Does the Coin Say ‘Mind Your Business’?

Franklin was known for his pithy sayings, and “Mind Your Business” was likely meant to encourage personal responsibility and focus. It could be seen as a financial reminder—urging citizens to take care of their affairs, or simply a clever phrase to deter meddling in others’ business.

As for “We Are One,” the motto was a powerful reminder that the United States was a union formed by the original 13 colonies, as symbolized by the 13 linked rings.

How Much Is a Fugio Cent Worth Today?

All Fugio Cents are valued well above their face value of one cent due to their rarity and historical significance.

There are two primary types:

1. Originals – Minted in 1788 but dated 1787
2. Restrikes – Made in the mid-1800s, known as New Haven restrikes

Both types are scarce, though the original versions are generally more prized among collectors.

Several varieties exist, and collectors often specialize in these differences. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) recognizes over a dozen variants.

• Common types typically start at around $200, including:
  • 1787 Fugio States United, 4 Cinquefoils
  • 1787 Fugio Club Rays with Rounded Ends
• Rarer types can fetch $20,000 or more, such as:
  • 1787 Fugio Uni. Sta., Club Rays Concave strike
  • 1787 Fugio with “FUCIO” misspelling

One of the rarest types is the 1787 Fugio Cross After Date with Raised Rims—only about seven known examples exist, valued at $25,000+.

Restrikes are more affordable, typically priced between $100 and $150.

The most valuable Fugio Cents can surpass $100,000 in uncirculated condition. One notable example—a well-worn but extremely rare 1787 Fugio States United, Club Rays, Concave Ends with “FUCIO”—was graded VF20 with environmental damage and sold at auction in 2022 for an impressive $132,000.

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