1864 Two Cent Piece – Large Motto – Raw – Environmental Damage – First “IN GOD WE TRUST” U.S. Coin

Description:

Offered here is a significant piece of Civil War-era U.S. coinage: the 1864 Two Cent Piece, Large Motto variety, in raw circulated condition with noted environmental damage. While this example exhibits surface corrosion and discoloration, it remains identifiable and collectible — offering a highly affordable way to own the first U.S. coin to feature “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

Specifications:

• Denomination: Two Cents

• Year of Issue: 1864

• Mint: Philadelphia (no mintmark)

• Variety: Large Motto

• Series: Two Cent Piece (1864–1873)

• Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc

• Diameter: 23.0 mm

• Weight: 6.22 grams

• Grade: Raw – Circulated with environmental damage

• Certification: Not certified

• Holder: Supplied in archival 2x2 flip

Highlights:

• First coin to bear “IN GOD WE TRUST” — a landmark in U.S. numismatics

• Large Motto variety with wider spacing between "WE" and "TRUST"

• Surfaces show moderate corrosion and discoloration from environmental exposure

• Key Civil War-era issue with strong historical appeal

• Ideal for budget-conscious collectors or educational display sets

Historical Note:

Authorized in 1864, the Two Cent Piece responded to the coin shortage during the Civil War and was the first coin to bear the now-famous motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This motto reflected the religious sentiment of the time and would later appear on nearly all U.S. coinage.

Designed by James B. Longacre, the coin was only issued until 1873, making it one of the shortest-running U.S. series. The 1864 Large Motto is by far the most collected issue, and even damaged examples offer a window into this critical chapter in American numismatic history.

Add a foundational piece of U.S. coinage history to your collection — or complete your type set with this raw 1864 Large Motto example.