Two-cent pieces were struck for general circulation from 1864 through 1872 (1873 was a Proof-only year). The bronze coin was designed by James B. Longacre and bears the shield-and-arrows obverse with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST — its first use on any United States coin.
Key facts
- Designed by: James B. Longacre
- Issue dates: 1864–1872
- Composition: Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc)
- Diameter: 23 mm
- Weight: 6.22 grams (96 grains)
- Edge: Plain
- Mintage: 45,601,000 (business strikes, 1864–1873)
The first two years (1864 and 1865) account for the great majority of the mintage and are easily collected in circulated grades; from 1866 onward production fell sharply, ending with just 65,000 pieces in 1872. Original full-red Uncirculated coins are elusive for every date. The best-known circulation rarities are the 1864 Small Motto, the sharply doubled 1867 Doubled Die obverse, and the 1869/8 overdate.
We actively buy circulation-strike two-cent pieces in every grade. Send photos for a free, no-obligation offer.