1864 2C Small Motto, RD MS(PCGS#3581)

August 2019 ANA U.S. Coins Auction Rosemont, IL

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

5113

等级

MS65+RD

价格

110,113

详细说明

Premium Gem 1864 Small Motto Two-Cent Piece Just Five Finer 1864 Two-Cent Piece. FS-401. Small Motto. MS-65+ RD (PCGS). CAC. This important first-year rarity exhibits satiny and vibrant surfaces that radiate lovely pinkish-orange luster at all angles. Scattered traces of darker patina confirm the originality of this piece. A lightly prooflike reflectivity shimmers throughout the fields and complements the frosted design elements. The strike is razor sharp throughout, and both the technical quality and aesthetic appeal are commensurate with the impressive MS-65+ RD rating from PCGS. The two-cent piece made its debut in 1864 at a time when gold and silver coinage had long since been absent from circulation in the Eastern and Midwestern states due to the economic turmoil and uncertainty brought about by the Civil War. Struck in bronze, the new denomination was not subject to such hoarding and, as such, initially proved popular in commercial channels. Mintages were correspondingly high in 1864 and 1865, but with the end of the Civil War in the latter year, production fell off rapidly through the series' end in 1873. The 1864 is the most plentiful date in this series, and as a first year issue it is understandably popular for type purposes. On the other hand, the issue contains an important rarity in the Small Motto variety. The first few Proofs, as well as a limited number of circulation strikes (Walter Breen, 1988, says only "a few thousand") were struck from an obverse die on which the letters in the motto IN GOD WE TRUST are small. This variety was quickly replaced by a new hub on which these letters are noticeably larger. Scarce in circulated grades, the 1864 Small Motto is very scarce in Mint State with either a BN or RB color designation. Full Red coins are very rare, particularly in the finest Mint State grades, as here. With just 5 certified finer, this is an important and highly desirable piece that is sure to fetch a strong bid. PCGS Population: 3; 5 finer. PCGS# 3581. NGC ID: 22N8. Click here for certification details from PCGS.