Price Guide for 1866 Two Cents Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $39.00 – $51.00Uncirculated: $70.00 – $3,600.00
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eBayUncirculated: $110.00 – $2,020.99
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $220.00 – $5,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $13.00 – $305.50Uncirculated: $57.00 – $1,997.50
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eBayCirculated: $5.57 – $220.00Uncirculated: $64.00 – $428.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $20.00 – $165.00Uncirculated: $175.00 – $2,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $228.00 – $3,240.00
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eBayUncirculated: $450.00 – $700.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $340.00 – $2,950.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $425.00 – $24,675.00
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eBayUncirculated: $449.88 – $2,601.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $575.00 – $22,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4.85 – $11,163.00
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eBayUncirculated: $628.00 – $3,495.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $375.00 – $6,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $577.00 – $920.00Uncirculated: $719.00 – $7,637.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $575.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,380.00 – $20,700.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,750.00 – $19,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $56,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $65,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1866 Two Cents
The 1866 Two Cent piece was part of a short-lived series that began in 1864 and ended in 1873. This coin is historically significant as it was the first U.S. coin to bear the motto ‘IN GOD WE TRUST’, which was added in response to increased religious sentiment during the Civil War. By 1866, the coin’s popularity was already declining due to the introduction of the nickel three-cent piece and the five-cent nickel.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Obverse Design | Shield with crossed arrows and olive branch, designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding '2 CENTS', designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of an 1866 Two Cent piece. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 or higher) are significantly more valuable due to their scarcity. The red copper color is highly prized, with fully red specimens commanding premium prices. Brown examples are more common and less valuable.
Key areas to examine for wear include the shield on the obverse and the wreath on the reverse. Strong strike quality is important, as weakly struck coins are less desirable. Original luster adds to the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 3,177,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Rarity in high grades significantly impacts value. While the mintage is relatively high, few examples survive in gem condition. Coins graded MS65 or higher are scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
Die varieties, while not as prominent as in some other series, can add interest and value. Collectors may pay a premium for coins with sharp details and attractive, original surfaces.
The historical significance of the Two Cent piece as the first to bear ‘IN GOD WE TRUST’ adds to its appeal among collectors and history enthusiasts, potentially increasing demand and value.
