1864 Large Motto Two Cent Piece Value Guide

The 1864 Large Motto Two Cent Piece is a landmark of American numismatics as it belongs to the first series to feature the motto 'In God We Trust'. Struck during the American Civil War to combat currency hoarding, this 95% copper coin remains a highly sought-after piece of Civil War history.

What affects the value of 1864 Large Motto Two Cent Piece?

• Surface preservation and the visibility of the vertical lines within the shield significantly impact the $10-$11 price point.
• The presence of original red luster versus brown oxidation or heavy circulation wear.
• Clarity of the 'In God We Trust' inscription, as wear on the ribbon can lower the grade and market value.
• Distinction from the rarer Small Motto variety, which commands a much higher premium than the common Large Motto.

How to Identify 1864 Large Motto Two Cent Piece?

• Examine the motto 'In God We Trust' on the obverse ribbon; the Large Motto variety features taller, narrower letters that nearly fill the ribbon's vertical space.
• Verify the composition of 95% copper with a 5% blend of tin and zinc, weighing approximately 6.22 grams.
• Check for the 1864 date positioned directly below the shield on the obverse side.
• Look for the '2 CENTS' denomination centered within a wheat wreath on the reverse.

History of 1864 Large Motto Two Cent Piece

The two-cent piece was produced by the United States Mint from 1864 to 1873. It is historically significant as the first U.S. coin to bear the inscription 'In God We Trust'. The coin was introduced during the American Civil War due to a shortage of smaller currency, as many citizens were hoarding silver and gold coins. The 1864 issue is divided into two varieties, Small Motto and Large Motto, with the Large Motto being the more common type.