1869 Two Cent Patterns

About This Coin

The 1869 Two Cent Patterns is a United States cent from the Reconstruction Era Patterns (1866-1869) series. The obverse features a shield with a banner inscribed IN GOD WE TRUST — the first U.S. coin to bear this motto, while the reverse displays a wreath enclosing 2 CENTS. Designed by James Barton Longacre. The Two-Cent Piece, introduced in 1864, holds the distinction of being the first U.S. coin to bear the motto IN GOD WE TRUST, which later spread to all denominations. Created during the Civil War coin shortage, the denomination quickly became redundant and was discontinued in 1873. The 1864 Small Motto variety is the key to the series. Later dates had declining mintages and the final years (1871-1873) are proof-only.