Price Guide for 1868 Two Cents Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1868 Two Cents 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.
1868 Two Cents, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $16.00 - $192.00Uncirculated: $87.00 - $780.00
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eBayCirculated: $8.26 - $225.00Uncirculated: $86.77 - $787.50
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $20.00 - $255.00Uncirculated: $270.00 - $1,750.00
1868 Two Cents, BN (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $184.00 - $518.00Uncirculated: $282.00 - $5,520.00
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eBayUncirculated: $342.77 - $848.83
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $340.00 - $5,750.00
1868 Two Cents, RB (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $345.00Uncirculated: $138.00 - $6,462.50
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eBayUncirculated: $153.00 - $4,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $300.00 - $8,750.00
1868 Two Cents, RD (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $399.60 - $37,200.00
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eBayUncirculated: $402.00 - $3,324.99
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $800.00 - $60,000.00
1868 Two Cents, RB (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4.35 - $18,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $411.54 - $1,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $375.00 - $20,000.00
1868 Two Cents, RD (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $575.00 - $23,500.00
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eBayUncirculated: $4,551.66 - $5,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $575.00 - $47,500.00
1868 Two Cents RPD FS-303, BN (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $360.00
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eBayCirculated: $112.50Uncirculated: $315.13
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $100.00 - $300.00Uncirculated: $330.00 - $950.00
1868 Two Cents, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,495.00 - $52,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $525.00 - $65,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1868 Two Cents
The 1868 Two Cent piece was part of the short-lived Two Cent coin series, which was produced from 1864 to 1873. This coin holds historical significance 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 1868, the demand for Two Cent pieces had significantly declined due to the reintroduction of the nickel five-cent piece in 1866.
| Weight | 6.22 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Obverse Design | Shield with laurel wreath and arrows, designed by James B. Longacre |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding 'TWO CENTS' and the year, designed by James B. Longacre |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1868 Two Cent piece significantly impacts its value. Circulation strikes in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are scarce, with those grading MS65 or higher being particularly rare and valuable. For proof coins, the preservation is crucial, with coins in PR65 or better condition commanding substantial premiums.
Original red color is highly prized in copper coins of this era. Specimens retaining a high percentage of their original mint red luster are especially desirable and valuable. Conversely, environmental damage, cleaning, or other impairments can significantly reduce the coin's value.
Mintage: 2,803,750
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: Moderate, with increasing collector interest due to historical significance
Mintage: 600
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades PR65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Strike quality is an important factor for both circulation strikes and proofs. Well-struck coins with full detail, especially on the shield and wreath, are more desirable. Toning can also affect value, with attractive, natural toning often enhancing a coin's appeal to collectors.
The historical significance of the Two Cent piece as the first to bear 'IN GOD WE TRUST' adds to its collectible appeal. Additionally, as one of the later dates in a short-lived series, the 1868 issue is becoming increasingly sought after by type collectors and series specialists alike.
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