Two Cent Piece Value
1864-1873 · 2¢ · 95% copper 5% tin+zinc
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $15.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $28.00 |
| Fine (F-12) | $65.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $250.00 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $750.00 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $3,750 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1864 | Small Motto variety is far rarer than Large Motto | $200–$3,500 |
| 1872 | Proof-only issue with just 950 struck | $800–$2,500 |
| 1873 | Final year, proof-only with closed 3 and open 3 varieties | $800–$3,000 |
| 1867 | Lower mintage of 2.94 million, scarce in uncirculated | $40–$400 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- James B. Longacre
- Years
- 1864-1873
- Denomination
- 2¢
- Composition
- 95% copper 5% tin+zinc
- Diameter
- 23 mm
- Weight
- 6.22 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Two Cent Piece: History & Background
The Two Cent Piece holds the distinction of being the first U.S. coin to bear the motto IN GOD WE TRUST, which appeared on the obverse shield starting in 1864. Designed by James B. Longacre during the Civil War when hoarding caused severe coin shortages, its initial 1864 mintage exceeded 19 million pieces. However, demand dropped sharply as fractional currency and other small denominations returned to circulation, and by 1872 only proof specimens were struck. The series was officially discontinued in 1873 as part of the Mint Act, and it remains a popular one-type-coin target for collectors.
How to Grade a Two Cent Piece
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →
What Affects Two Cent Piece Value?
Condition & Grade
The grade spread for Two Cent Pieces is dramatic: a common-date example jumps from $15.00 in Poor to $250.00 in Uncirculated — a 17× increase. Gem-quality MS-65 specimens can reach $750.00 or more. Even a single grade point difference at the upper end can double a coin's price.
Date & Mintmark
The Two Cent Piece series has 4 notable key dates. The 1864 is valued at $200–$3,500, far above common dates. Mintmark location and variety (such as overdates or repunched marks) can multiply a coin's value significantly.
Collector Demand
As a 95% copper 5% tin+zinc coin, the Two Cent Piece derives its value entirely from collector demand rather than metal content. This makes condition and rarity even more important — heavily worn common dates may trade near face value, while key dates and high-grade examples command strong premiums.
Strike Quality & Eye Appeal
Designed by James B. Longacre, the Two Cent Piece (23mm diameter) can exhibit varying strike quality across different mint facilities and years. Coins with full, sharp design details, original luster, and attractive toning trade at premiums of 20–50% above the same technical grade with average eye appeal.
Collector Notes: Two Cent Piece
The Two Cent Piece (1864-1873) holds a distinctive place in US numismatics. Designed by James B. Longacre, this 2¢ coin was struck in 95% copper 5% tin+zinc with a diameter of 23mm and weight of 6.22 grams. These physical specifications are essential for authentication — any deviation from these measurements is a red flag for counterfeits.
Collectors approaching the Two Cent Piece series should start by assembling a date-and-mintmark set in a consistent grade. Fine (F-12) offers a good balance of affordability and visual appeal for most dates, with clear design elements still visible. Budget roughly $65.00 per common date in Fine condition, then set aside a larger budget for the 4 key dates in the series.
For registry set collectors pursuing top grades, the Two Cent Piece in MS-65 or better represents a more significant investment at $750.00+ per coin. Population reports from PCGS and NGC show that the supply of certified high-grade examples is limited, and competition among registry set collectors has driven premiums for condition-census coins.
Before purchasing any Two Cent Piece valued above $100, we recommend reviewing our 2026 US Coin Values Quick Reference PDF ($2.99) which includes a complete grade-by-grade price breakdown and key date identification guide for this series.
Two Cent Piece: Frequently Asked Questions
▶How much is a Two Cent Piece worth today?
A Two Cent Piece (1864-1873) is worth between $15.00 in Poor condition and $250.00 or more in Uncirculated condition. In the most commonly found Fine grade, expect around $65.00. Gem specimens graded MS-65 can reach $750.00 or higher. Values fluctuate with collector demand.
▶What is the most valuable Two Cent Piece?
The most valuable Two Cent Piece is the 1864 — small motto variety is far rarer than large motto. This date is valued at $200–$3,500 depending on grade and condition. Always have potentially valuable dates authenticated by PCGS or NGC before selling.
▶How do I grade a Two Cent Piece?
Grading a Two Cent Piece starts with examining the highest points of the design, where wear appears first. Look for remaining luster, sharpness of details, and surface marks. The Sheldon scale runs from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect). For this series, the jump from Fine (F-12, worth ~$65.00) to Uncirculated (MS-63, worth ~$250.00) is significant. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC costs $20–$50 per coin and is recommended for coins that appear to be worth $100 or more. Our PDF guide ($2.99) includes a visual grading chart for this series.
▶Where is the best place to sell Two Cent Pieces?
For common-date Two Cent Pieces in circulated grades, local coin shops and eBay are practical options — expect 70–85% of retail value. For key dates or high-grade examples, Heritage Auctions or Stack's Bowers will reach the most serious buyers and typically achieve the strongest prices. PCGS or NGC certification is essential before consigning valuable coins to auction. For a detailed selling strategy, see our selling guide.
▶Are there error varieties of the Two Cent Piece?
Yes. Known Two Cent Piece errors include doubled die obverses and reverses, repunched mintmarks, off-center strikes, and die cracks. Some error varieties can be worth multiples of normal strikes. Always examine coins under magnification to check for die doubling, especially on lettering and dates.
▶How can I tell if my Two Cent Piece is real?
Authentic Two Cent Pieces weigh 6.22 grams and measure 23 mm in diameter. Check the weight with a precision scale (digital scales accurate to 0.01g are available for under $20). The coin should be composed of 95% copper 5% tin+zinc. Counterfeit coins often fail the weight test, show seams on the edge, or have mushy design details. For valuable dates, always obtain PCGS or NGC authentication — the cost is minimal compared to the risk of buying or selling a counterfeit.
▶What affects the value of a Two Cent Piece the most?
The four biggest value drivers for Two Cent Pieces are: (1) Grade — the difference between Good and Uncirculated is $222.00 for common dates; (2) Date and mintmark — key dates like 1864 command large premiums; (3) Eye appeal — original surfaces, attractive toning, and strong strikes increase desirability among collectors.
▶How many Two Cent Pieces were made?
The Two Cent Piece was produced from 1864-1873. Mintage varied widely by year and mint — some dates had millions struck while key dates had far fewer. The scarce 1864 is especially sought after. Check our full value table above for key dates and their relative scarcity.
▶Should I clean my Two Cent Piece?
Never clean a Two Cent Piece or any collectible coin. Cleaning removes the original surface and patina, which collectors prize — a cleaned coin can lose 50% or more of its value compared to an original, naturally toned example. Even coins that look "dirty" often have desirable original toning. If you must remove loose debris, hold the coin by its edges and gently rinse with distilled water. Our coin storage guide has more preservation tips.
▶Is the Two Cent Piece a good investment?
Two Cent Pieces in key dates and high grades have historically appreciated well. Common dates in circulated grades are affordable entry points. For investment purposes, focus on PCGS/NGC-certified examples in grades of Fine or better, and prioritize key dates with low mintages. Our PDF Quick Reference Guide ($2.99) covers all Two Cent Piece dates and values to help identify the best opportunities.