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Spanning 1864 to 1873, the Two Cent Piece catalog contains 23 year-and-mintmark variants. Across the series, the key date is the 1864 Two Cent Piece at just 100 struck and the highest-value variant is the 1867 Two Cent Piece at up to $24,000 in top grade.
Combined mintage per year across every strike type (circulated, proof, and specimen) and all mintmarks.
The Two Cent Piece coin is a coin that was minted in the United States from 1864 to 1873. It was the first coin to feature the inspirational phrase “In God We Trust,” which would become a standard on all U.S. coins over the following decades. The coin was issued during the Civil War and was intended to be a reminder of God’s providence and help during a difficult period for the nation.
The Two Cent Piece was designed by James B. Longacre, who also designed the Indian Head cent. The obverse of the coin features a Liberty head with the inscription “In God We Trust.” The reverse of the coin has the denomination “2 Cents” with a shield surrounded by radiating rays. The coin was struck in copper-nickel and had varying mintages.
The Two Cent Piece was unpopular with many who thought it was too small in diameter and thin in weight to be a good value. As a result, its circulation was short-lived, and it was eventually replaced by the Three Cent Nickel. Today, the Two Cent Piece is a popular collectible coin, especially in higher grades.
Overall, the Two Cent Piece coin is an interesting and historic coin that is sought after by coin collectors both for its symbolism and rarity. It is a reminder of the nation’s history and faith and a reminder of the importance of cherishing symbols of national identity and history.
Looking for coins from a specific year across every denomination? Browse US coin values by year →
Which Two Cent Piece coins do collectors actually own? See the 2026 rarity & ownership report →