RCD-2c-1865-05R Retained Cud

Description

Fifth in the reverse retained cud catalog for the 1865 Two Cent Piece, RCD-2c-1865-05R appears on the Plain 5 date variety struck at Philadelphia. Reaching a fifth entry in the retained cud sequence for a single denomination-date speaks to the thoroughness of modern die variety research on this short-lived series. A retained cud occurs when a rim-reaching die crack produces a fragment that fractures but remains mechanically trapped, continuing to strike coins bearing a raised irregular deformation. James Barton Longacre's design features a bold shield on the obverse with IN GOD WE TRUST on a scroll — the debut of these words on American coinage in 1864. The Plain 5 logotype distinguishes this sub-variety from the Fancy 5 with its ornamental curved flag, both produced during the same year at Philadelphia. The bronze composition of 95% copper with tin and zinc provided adequate die life, but the high-relief shield motif accelerated deterioration. Five retained cuds on the Plain 5 contributes to a growing picture of die attrition patterns for this historically significant denomination.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Fred Weinberg
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References