Every rare coin has a unique history, and some carry fascinating stories that make them particularly desirable to coin collectors. The two-cent coin is an obscure coin that most people today will never come across, but it may be the ideal addition to your collection. The following guide delves into the brief history of the two-cent piece in America.

Original Mintage

The two-cent coin was conceived partially to make up for a shortage of one-cent coins in 1864, during the Civil War. It also came during a period of experimentation in the United States, where somewhat unusual values like the three-cent and $4 denominations were produced. Many of these did not fit into the currency system and were eventually discontinued.

A small, copper-alloy bronze cent only slightly thicker than the modern penny, the two-cent coin was the first to show the motto “In God We Trust.” The piece featured a ribbon inscribed with the motto above a shield on the obverse side. On the back, “2 cents” is printed in the center and surrounded by a wreath. These were designed by Mint Engraver James Barton Longacre.

Unsuccessful Circulation

Since it first began circulation, the two-cent coin did not see much success. Despite the coin shortage, they were not widely used, and demand fell sharply after the war ended and regular coinage returned. From the first 19 million struck in 1864, production gradually slowed every year until it stopped entirely in 1873. It is estimated that just over 1,000 two-cent coins were struck in the final year of mintage. While most of its short life was dedicated to circulation, those struck in 1873 were produced with coin collectors in mind.

Different Varieties

Although the circulation of the two-cent coin was short-lived, there are many varieties that may be of interest, and they are not extremely difficult for the dedicated coin collector to find. The most distinct varieties are the large-print motto and small-print motto, the latter of which was only struck in early 1864. The large-letter variety was used for most of the first year of mintage and continued until the end of circulation. 

Date digits for the coin were punched in by hand, resulting in 1865/4 and 1869/8 overdates. An 1867 variety shows the motto “In God We Trust” sharply doubled. The two-cent series is relatively short, but it is excellent for coin collectors looking for a challenge.

If you are a coin collector seeking to expand your collection, value your current pieces, or sell, Coins Plus of Cincinnati, OH, can help. This trusted coin dealer is well-known for offering accurate appraisals and the fairest prices in the industry, backed by years of experience as nationally recognized numismatic experts. In addition to rare coins, they deal with bullion, paper currency, scrap jewelry, and estate items. To learn more about coin buying, selling, and appraisal, visit their website or call (513) 621-1996.