Lot 1652
1863 Pattern Two Cents. Bronze, plain edge. Judd-312. Pollock-377. PCGS graded Proof 65 Brown. CAC Approved. Lovely blue and brown toning. Pop 13; 3 finer in 66. This Pattern carries the earliest version of a national Motto, GOD OUR TRUST. It would thereafter be replaced by the more familiar IN GOD WE TRUST
At the time the Mint was examiining a replacement for the problematic copper-nickel cent (1856-64), it also toyed with the idea of a Two-cent denomination in light of the critical shortage of small change during the Civil War. Mint Director Pollock wrote to the Secretary of the Treasury (Chase):
"I also propose for your consideration the coinage of a two-cent piece, same material and double weight of the cent, and with such devices and motto as may be approved by you. This piece would be a great public convenience, and its coinage, in my opinion, should be authorized. The devices are beautiful and appropriate, and the motto on each such, as all who fear God and love their country, will approve. I prefer the "shield and arrows" to the "head of Washington," on the obverse of the coin. They are submitted for your consideration. If you approve the change of material, and the coinage of the two-cent piece, or either, I will, if you direct it, prepare a supplement to the existing laws, to be by you submitted to Congress for their action (PCGS # 60467) .
Estimated Value $2,800 - 3,000.
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| Realized $3,878 |
