1863 Two Cent Patterns

About This Coin

Predating the denomination's introduction by one year, the 1863 Two Cent Patterns from the Civil War Patterns (1860-1865) document the critical experimental phase preceding the two-cent piece's 1864 debut. Produced at the Philadelphia Mint while the war raged at Gettysburg, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga, these patterns tested James Barton Longacre's design featuring a shield obverse with the historically significant IN GOD WE TRUST banner — the first time this motto appeared on any United States coin, even in pattern form. The reverse displays a wreath enclosing 2 CENTS. A notable result of $48K in PR65+ grade at Heritage Auctions — the highest among two-cent pattern years — reflects the premium collectors place on pre-production experimental pieces. The 1863 date is particularly significant because it captures the moment when Mint Director James Pollock and Treasury Secretary Salmon Chase were developing the religious motto in response to public appeals. For numismatic historians, the 1863 Two Cent Patterns represent the genesis point of IN GOD WE TRUST on American coinage — physical evidence of a decision affecting every denomination in the monetary system.