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The Certified 1866 Two-Cent Piece graded MS64BN by NGC represents a high-end Mint State example of one of America’s most short-lived and historically significant coin denominations. Struck during the Reconstruction Era following the Civil War, this coin embodies the nation’s transition and resilience in the mid-19th century. As the second year of the two-cent denomination, the 1866 issue carried forward the legacy of its 1864 debut, including the historic first appearance of the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Graded MS64BN (Mint State 64 Brown) by NGC, the coin shows no trace of circulation, full mint luster beneath rich patina, and impressive eye appeal for a copper coin of this era.
The two-cent piece was first introduced in 1864 as a wartime emergency measure when coins of all types were hoarded and vanished from circulation due to the economic uncertainties of the Civil War. Authorized by the Coinage Act of April 22, 1864, and struck in bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc), the denomination aimed to alleviate the coin shortage by providing a slightly larger coin of low intrinsic value. Its size, distinctive denomination, and motto made it immediately recognizable, though it struggled to gain lasting popularity and would eventually be discontinued after 1873. The 1866 issue sits at the heart of its short production run.
The obverse of the 1866 two-cent piece features the Union Shield, symbolizing national unity and strength during the post-Civil War reconstruction period. Designed by James Barton Longacre, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, the shield rests atop crossed arrows, representing defense and military readiness, and is crowned by a ribbon inscribed with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This was the first coin to include this now-familiar phrase, which would go on to become a staple of all American coinage. The date “1866” appears centered at the bottom of the design. In MS64BN condition, the devices are sharp and the surfaces retain smooth, original copper luster with even brown toning, devoid of circulation marks or wear.
The reverse design displays the denomination “2 CENTS” within a wheat wreath that encircles the central field. Around the perimeter is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The wheat wreath, a symbol of agricultural prosperity, reinforces the theme of national recovery and stability. The reverse of a coin graded MS64BN by NGC shows full detail, nearly flawless surfaces for the grade, and deep brown coloration typical of aged copper, often with hints of red or violet undertones depending on the storage and handling over time. Strike sharpness is typically high on 1866 examples, especially in the high Mint State range.
The “BN” designation stands for “Brown,” a surface color classification used by NGC and other grading services for copper coins. Over time, copper naturally oxidizes and changes color from its original red hue to a rich brown tone. A Brown coin like this one retains its full design detail and luster but has taken on an even, chocolate-like color due to natural toning. Though not as rare or valuable as Red (RD) or Red Brown (RB) copper examples, Brown Mint State coins still offer excellent visual character, especially when clean, glossy, and well-preserved—as is the case with a MS64BN grade.
Mintages for the 1866 two-cent piece totaled approximately 3,177,000 coins, down from the peak in 1864 but still reflecting substantial output for the denomination. Most of these coins entered circulation, where their soft copper composition made them prone to rapid wear, corrosion, or damage. As a result, Mint State survivors are considerably scarcer than circulated examples. Collectors prize high-grade 1866 pieces for their historical importance, strong strike characteristics, and the early appearance of the national motto—elements that make this coin particularly appealing in mid-to-high Mint State grades.
The MS64 grade places this coin among the top percentiles of known survivors, just one point shy of the widely respected Gem category. At this level, the coin shows fully struck details, minimal marks under magnification, and strong luster—attributes not commonly found on Brown-designated copper coins from this period. NGC’s encapsulation protects the coin and provides professional certification of authenticity, condition, and color designation, giving buyers full confidence in its quality and market standing. For those assembling high-grade type sets or dedicated two-cent collections, an MS64BN coin offers both quality and value.
The two-cent piece series was short-lived, lasting only from 1864 to 1873, with business strikes ending in 1872 and a small number of Proof-only issues struck in 1873. Its discontinuation stemmed from declining demand and the introduction of more practical denominations like the nickel five-cent piece, which began to dominate small change. Still, the two-cent piece holds a special place in American numismatics as a transitional denomination issued during one of the most formative periods in U.S. history. The 1866 issue is a central part of that narrative, representing the continuation of the motto and the spirit of national restoration.
Collectors of 19th-century U.S. coinage often seek the two-cent piece for its bold design, historical relevance, and unique status as the only U.S. coin to prominently carry the denomination “2 CENTS.” The 1866 issue, especially in Mint State, offers strong eye appeal with deeply impressed motifs, harmonious toning, and tangible historical resonance. The coin’s compact size and artistic depth also make it visually rewarding when viewed up close, with sharply defined wheat kernels and intricate shield details that stand out in high-grade examples.
The Certified 1866 Two-Cent Piece graded MS64BN by NGC is a top-quality specimen of a historically significant and collectible denomination. With its bold strike, rich natural toning, and preservation in near-Gem condition, it appeals to collectors seeking premium copper coinage from the post-Civil War era. Whether added to a type set, a cabinet of Mint State 19th-century coins, or a Civil War–themed collection, this coin stands as a proud and enduring symbol of American recovery, faith, and numismatic excellence.