The Two Cent Piece, first minted in 1864, was introduced as part of an effort to alleviate the shortage of small denomination coins during the Civil War era. It aimed to provide a convenient medium for everyday transactions and to combat the widespread hoarding of coins. Featuring a unique design with a shield on the reverse and the motto “In God We Trust,” the Two Cent Piece represented a significant departure from previous coinage styles.
Why it Started
The Two Cent Piece was introduced to address the shortage of small denomination coins during the Civil War era, aiming to provide a practical solution for everyday transactions and to combat coin hoarding. It featured a distinctive design with a shield on the reverse and the motto “In God We Trust,” symbolizing unity and faith during a turbulent period in American history.
Why it Ended
The Two Cent Piece was discontinued after 1873 due to declining demand and the preference for other denominations such as the Cent and Nickel Three Cent Piece. The introduction of additional coinage types and changes in public preference rendered the Two Cent Piece obsolete.
| Years | Species | Front | Back |
| 1864-1873 | Shield |  |  |