Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An authentic United States two-cent coin, minted in 95% copper during the tumultuous years of the American Civil War. Designed by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre, this short-lived denomination features a patriotic shield on the obverse and a simple wheat wreath on the reverse.
Story
In 1864, amid the chaos of the Civil War, coin hoarding left the Union desperate for small change. This humble two-cent coin stepped in to save daily commerce, carrying a brand new motto to soothe a fractured nation: 'In God We Trust'.
Maker / Origin
The coin was designed by James Barton Longacre, the 4th Chief Engraver of the US Mint. Longacre is legendary for designing some of America's most beloved 19th-century coins, including the Indian Head penny and the Shield nickel, bringing a distinctively American neoclassical style to the nation's coinage.
Condition & Value
The coin shows significant wear, particularly on the obverse where the date and the motto ribbon are heavily obscured. There is also noticeable dark oxidation and minor green verdigris spotting on the lower edges, which reduces its numismatic grade to Good or Very Good.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.