The Ultimate 1864 2-Cent Coin Collector’s Guide: Varieties, Errors & Values

America’s Forgotten Civil War Coin – Worth Up to $1,700+

At PennyVerse.info, we’ve uncovered the fascinating history and surprising value of the 1864 2-cent piece – America’s first coin to bear the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and a numismatic treasure hiding in plain sight.

Historical Significance of the 1864 2-Cent Coin

Civil War Era Rarity

• First US coin with “IN GOD WE TRUST”
• Minted during metal shortages (1864-1873)
• Designed by James B. Longacre
• Reflects religious sentiment during wartime

Key Design Elements

• Obverse: Shield with banner “IN GOD WE TRUST”
• Reverse: Wheat wreath with denomination
• Edge: Plain (no reeding)
• Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin/zinc

Two Major Varieties & Their Values

1. Large Motto (Common)

• Mintage: Approximately 19.8 million
• Characteristics:
  • Wider “IN GOD WE TRUST” lettering
  • More space between shield and motto
• Value Range:
  • Good (G-4): $15-$25
  • Extremely Fine (XF-40): $75-$125
  • Mint State (MS-63): $300-$600

2. Small Motto (Rare)

• Mintage: Only ~20,000 estimated
• Characteristics:
  • Compact, tightly spaced lettering
  • Motto closer to shield
• Value Range:
  • Good (G-4): $150-$250
  • Extremely Fine (XF-40): $600-$900
  • Mint State (MS-65): $1,500-$1,700+

Identifying Key Errors That Increase Value

1. Grease-Filled Die Errors

• Appearance: Missing or weak lettering
• Most Common: Partial “IN GOD WE TRUST”
• Value Impact: +50-100% over normal coins

2. Rotated Die Errors

• Measurement: 15° to 180° rotation
• Rarity: 90°+ rotations most valuable
• Value Impact: +200-500% premium

3. Off-Metal Strikes

• Appearance: Wrong color or weight
• Causes: Experimental planchets
• Value: $2,000+ for verified examples

Grading & Condition Guide

Grade	Shield Detail	Motto Legibility	Value (Small Motto)
Good (G-4)	Outline visible	Partially readable	$150-$250
Very Fine (VF-20)	Moderate detail	Fully readable	$300-$450
Extremely Fine (XF-40)	Sharp details	Crisp lettering	$600-$900
Uncirculated (MS-60)	Full luster	Perfect lettering	$900-$1,200
Gem (MS-65)	Radiant surfaces	Sharp strike	$1,500-$1,700+

Where to Find These Coins Today

1. Old Collections (Especially Civil War era)
2. Coin Dealer Inventories (Ask for “type coins”)
3. Estate Sales (Check antique jewelry boxes)
4. Metal Detecting (Civil War sites)
5. Online Auctions (Search for “1864 2-cent”)

Professional Authentication Tips

1. Weight Verification: Should be 6.22g (±0.19g)
2. Measure Diameter: 23mm exact
3. Magnetic Test: Must be non-magnetic
4. Surface Inspection: Look for authentic patina
5. Compare Motto: Use magnification for variety ID

Market Trends (2024 Update)

• Small motto varieties up 35% since 2020
• Civil War numismatics gaining popularity
• Gem examples becoming museum pieces
• Error coins setting auction records

Selling Your 1864 2-Cent Coin

Best Options by Value:

• <$500: Local coin shops or eBay
• $500-$1,500: Coin forums or specialty auctions
• $1,500+: Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers
• Major Errors: Consult error specialists

Join Our Civil War Coin Collectors Circle

🔍 At PennyVerse.info you’ll discover:

• Free weekly historical coin profiles
• Live Q&A with type coin experts
• Access to our Civil War numismatics database
• Members-only buying opportunities

Have an 1864 2-cent coin? Our team provides free preliminary evaluations – submit your photos in our forum!

Would you like our free “Civil War Coin Identification Guide”? Subscribe to our newsletter for instant access plus a bonus 19th century error coin checklist!

---