Description:
Offered here is a raw 1865 Two Cent Piece, featuring the highly collectible Fancy 5 variety — recognized by the ornate, curved “5” in the date. This Civil War-era copper coin shows even circulation wear with solid detail and bold device definition. A popular and affordable variety from the short-lived Two Cent series, perfect for 19th-century collectors and type set enthusiasts.
Specifications:
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Denomination: Two Cents
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Year of Issue: 1865
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Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)
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Variety: Fancy 5 (curved, stylized “5” in the date)
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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
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Certification: Not certified
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Holder: Supplied in archival 2x2 flip
Highlights:
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Fancy 5 variety – distinctive, curved “5” in the date unique to early dies
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A favorite variety for collectors of U.S. copper and Civil War-era coinage
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Moderate wear with full motto and shield details visible
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Features “IN GOD WE TRUST”, first introduced on the Two Cent Piece in 1864
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Scarce and interesting example from the second year of the series
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Affordable entry point for die variety specialists and 19th-century U.S. collectors
Historical Note:
The Two Cent Piece, introduced during the Civil War, marked a turning point in American coinage by being the first to carry the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The 1865 Fancy 5 is a notable variety where the digit “5” was hand-punched into the working die with a stylized, more decorative shape.
Although the 1865 mintage was large (over 13 million coins), only a portion feature the Fancy 5 variety, making it a sought-after find for variety collectors. This piece offers an attractive, historic design paired with an identifiable die variety.
Looking to build a Two Cent set or expand your U.S. variety collection? Check our store for more Civil War and post-war era coins.
