1864 Large Motto USA 2-cents VF-EF (VF30)

1864 Large Motto USA 2-cents VF-EF (VF-30)

The United States two-cent piece was a short-lived but historically significant denomination, struck from 1864 through 1873. Introduced during the American Civil War, the coin was created in response to a severe shortage of small change, as gold, silver, and even copper coins were being removed from circulation. Designed by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, the obverse features a heraldic shield with arrows and a ribbon bearing the words IN GOD WE TRUST, while the reverse displays the denomination 2 CENTS within a wreath of wheat and other agricultural elements. Struck in bronze, the two-cent piece was approximately 23 mm in diameter and weighed 6.22 grams.

The two-cent piece is perhaps best remembered for being the first United States coin to bear the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The motto was added during the Civil War, reflecting a desire to express national faith during a period of tremendous uncertainty and conflict. The denomination proved to be relatively unpopular once normal coinage began returning to circulation, and production declined dramatically after its introduction. The first year, 1864, is particularly interesting to collectors because two major varieties exist: the Small Motto and Large Motto issues. The denomination was ultimately discontinued under the Coinage Act of 1873, making its ten-year production run one of the shortest in United States coinage history.

Large Motto Variety: The motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is much larger on the ribbon above the shield.

Obverse: A shield in the centre, with the United States Motto on a ribbon above, and the date below.
Reverse: Denomination within a wreath of wheat ears, with the country name around.

Specifications:
Engraver: James Barton Longacre
Composition: Bronze
Weight: 6.22 g
Diameter: 23 mm
Edge: Plain
Die Axis: ↑↓
Mint: The United States Mint of Philadelphia, United States
Mintage: 19,847,500