Information about effigy: Flying Eagle

The bald eagle was chosen June 20, 1782 as the emblem of the United States of America, because of its long life, great strength and majestic looks, and also because it was then believed to exist only on this continent.

The eagle appears in flight on some early dollar coins, as well as on the iconic Flying Eagle Cent.

On most American coins though it is shown in its heraldic form.