The United States Two Cent Piece was struck from 1864 through 1873 and is remembered for introducing the motto IN GOD WE TRUST to American coinage. That phrase would later become a permanent feature on many forms of U.S. currency. Although the denomination was only produced for ten years, it remains a popular collectible thanks to its short date range and the mix of common and scarce issues within the series. The 1865 release was minted during the final year of the Civil War and carries a BN designation. Today, 1865 Two Cent Piece Coins in certified condition are available online from Provident Metals.

Highlights:

• Coin arrives in a protective plastic slab!
• 2nd year of issue for the Two Cent Piece!
• Final mintage of 13,640,000 coins from Philadelphia!
• Contains 95% copper content.
• Issued a face value of $.02 (USD) by the United States.
• Bears a grade of Mint State 63 from the Professional Coin Grading Service.
• BN designation.
• Obverse features the Union Shield and national motto.
• Reverse includes a wheat wreath with the nation of issue.

These 1865 Two Cent Piece Coins have been graded Mint State 63 and carry a BN (Brown) designation. The BN label describes the surface color of the copper. A coin with this designation retains less than 5% of its original red copper tone, with most of the surfaces now showing the darker brown shade that forms over time. MS63 coins usually offer solid visual appeal overall, though they may display a number of small contact marks, a few heavier marks in isolated areas, and light hairlines visible to the naked eye.

Obverse

The obverse of the 1865 Two Cent Piece features a design created by James B. Longacre. At the center is a Union shield symbolizing national strength and unity. Above the shield rests a bundle of crossed arrows, while a banner across the top displays the inscription IN GOD WE TRUST. This marked the first appearance of the motto on a United States coin.

Reverse

On the reverse of 1865 Two Cent Piece Coins, the denomination 2 CENTS appears prominently in the center of the design. The text is enclosed by a wreath made of wheat and other crops, with the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounding the outer rim. The layout is straightforward and balanced, reflecting the patriotic tone of American coinage during the Civil War era.

History

The 1865 Two Cent Piece was produced at the Philadelphia Mint during the closing stages of the Civil War, giving the coin a meaningful place in American history. With more than 13 million pieces struck, it is considered one of the more widely available issues in the series. That accessibility makes it an appealing choice for collectors looking to own a certified coin from this historic period. The coin itself was struck using a bronze alloy made of 95% copper with small amounts of tin and zinc.

Ordering

Provident Metals’ customer service can help you buy copper coins at 1-800-313-3315. We are also available online through our web chat and email address.