Description:
Offered here is an important Civil War-era copper coin: the 1864 Two Cent Piece, Large Motto variety, in raw circulated condition with slight environmental damage. This first-year issue features the historic debut of the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”, and remains highly sought after by collectors of early U.S. type coins. The coin retains good definition with attractive color and integrity, despite minor surface issues.
Specifications:
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Denomination: Two Cents
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Year of Issue: 1864
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Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)
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Variety: Large Motto
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Series: Two Cent Piece (1864–1873)
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Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
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Diameter: 23.0 mm
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Weight: 6.22 grams
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Grade: Raw – Circulated with slight environmental damage
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Certification: Not certified
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Holder: Supplied in archival 2x2 flip
Highlights:
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First U.S. coin to feature “IN GOD WE TRUST”
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Large Motto variety with clear separation between lettering
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Displays even wear and moderate brown toning
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Slight environmental damage (minor corrosion or surface discoloration noted)
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Highly collectible Civil War-era copper coin with strong historic value
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Excellent type coin for 19th-century sets or motto-themed collections
Historical Note:
The Two Cent Piece was introduced in 1864 in response to widespread coin hoarding during the Civil War. Its release marked a significant moment in U.S. numismatic and cultural history, being the first coin to carry the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Designed by James B. Longacre, the coin’s short-lived series and symbolic design make it especially desirable among type coin collectors. The Large Motto version is the more common of the two 1864 varieties, but its historical significance remains unparalleled.
Whether you’re building a U.S. type set or collecting Civil War-era coins, this 1864 Two Cent Piece offers meaningful history at a collector-friendly price point.
