1864 Large Motto Proof Two-Cent Piece

The 1864 Large Motto proof two-cent piece was struck after the Mint enlarged the IN GOD WE TRUST lettering to improve legibility. Approximately 100 proofs were produced in the Large Motto format, a larger figure than the Small Motto proof but still small by any standard. The proof represents the standard presentation of the first-year two-cent piece, with the motto in the form that would appear on all subsequent issues of the denomination.

The proof shows Longacre's shield design in full mirrored relief. The obverse features come through clearly: the crossed arrows, the olive branch, the wreath of leaves around the shield, and the prominent ribbon across the top carrying the motto. The reverse wheat wreath encircles 2 CENTS with matching sharpness. The 1864 Large Motto proof is the coin that introduced proof collectors to the two-cent piece, and it would remain the benchmark for proof production in the denomination throughout its ten-year run.