1864 Two Cent CU-2c-1864-15 & 16

Description

Cataloged as a combined entry covering two related cud positions on the 1864 Large Motto Two Cent Piece, CU-2c-1864-15 & 16 documents a pair of rim die breaks from the same die or closely related dies used during the inaugural year of this denomination. A cud forms when a section of the die rim fractures and separates, leaving a cavity that fills with metal during striking to produce a raised featureless blob at the coin's edge. The dual catalog numbering suggests either two distinct cud positions on a single die or two separate dies that both developed rim fractures — both scenarios reflecting the stresses of striking this newly introduced denomination. The Two Cent Piece was authorized by the Coinage Act of April 22, 1864, and the 1864 Large Motto variety is distinguished by the bolder IN GOD WE TRUST inscription that became standard — this denomination was the first United States coin to bear that motto. Struck in 95% copper and 5% tin-and-zinc at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1864 Large Motto had a substantial mintage as the public eagerly adopted the new denomination during the Civil War era coin shortage. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins, these cuds on the first-year Two Cent Piece hold particular historical interest for die variety specialists.

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