Whitman Expo
1864 Large Motto 2 Cents PR BN Values
Details
As previously noted, the Mint struck the Two Cent coins in 1864 with a Small Motto which was later changed to the Large Motto. The Large Motto of IN GOD WE TRUST ended up being the permanent choice of design for the remainder of the time this denomination was produced. The Large Motto is technically the type coin for the date. Scarce as a gem with brown and red-brown color. A rarity with full red color and with cameo surfaces.
Obverse: An ornate shield flanked on the left and right by leaves with arrow heads and shanks (crossed behind) appear protruding at the four corners. A ribbon above the shield bears the words IN GOD WE TRUST, making this coin design the first usage this now-ubiquitous motto. The date is positioned at the bottom center.
Reverse: A large numeral 2 with the word CENTS below (smaller) in the center is framed by a well-defined wheat wreath tied at the bottom center by a simple ribbon. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA appears around the periphery.
Mint & Coinage Details
Mint Location:
Philadelphia
Mintage:
100
Coinage Type:
Two cent piece
Coinage Years:
1864-1873
Composition:
0.95 copper; 0.05 tin & zinc
Varieties and Classification
Variety:
Large Motto
Physical Characteristics
Weight:
6.22 gr
Weight:
0.2 oz
Strike Type:
Proof
Diameter:
23 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
James B. Longacre
Obverse Lettering:
IN GOD WE TRUST, 1864
Obverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
Reverse Lettering:
2, CENTS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Reverse Designer:
James B. Longacre
Feedback:
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