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Two-Cent Pieces • 1864–1872 1864 Small Motto →
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1864 Large Motto Proof

Two & Three Cents · Two-Cent Pieces · 1864–1872
Key date Proof
Weight6.22 g
Diameter23 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeProof
Mintage 19,847,500 Combined mintage for all 1864 varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc
DesignerJames B. Longacre
Collector's Key IDCK-904

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Varieties & References

Other recorded varieties for 1864:

External references

About this coinHistory

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.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR) — —
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1864 Large Motto Proof Two-Cent Pieces were minted?
19,847,500 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1864 varieties).
What is a 1864 Large Motto Proof Two-Cent Piece made of?
95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc, weighing 6.22 g.
What is the melt value of a 1864 Large Motto Proof Two-Cent Piece?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1864 Large Motto Proof Two-Cent Piece a key date?
Yes — the 1864 Large Motto Proof Two-Cent Piece is considered a key date in the Two-Cent Pieces series and commands a strong premium.