1866 Two Cent Patterns

About This Coin

Opening the Reconstruction Era Patterns (1866-1869) series, the 1866 Two Cent patterns were produced at the Philadelphia Mint during the raw aftermath of the Civil War, as the nation grappled with reunification, abolition, and the reconstruction of Southern economies. The obverse features the shield design with IN GOD WE TRUST — the motto that debuted on the regular Two Cent piece just two years earlier in 1864, introduced partly in response to a wartime surge in religious sentiment and public petitions urging the Deity's acknowledgment on national coinage. Designed by James Barton Longacre, the reverse displays a wreath enclosing 2 CENTS in a composition balancing simplicity with federal authority. A notable auction result of $17K in MS66+ grade at Heritage Auctions — the highest among this batch's three Two Cent pattern years — reflects the premium that superb preservation commands. The 1866 patterns tested variations on the established design during a period when the Mint explored new denominations, compositions, and concepts across its product line. Collectors prize 1866 patterns for their position at the inception of the Reconstruction-era experimental program and for the historical resonance of coins produced during one of the most transformative periods in American history.