Bess B. writes: My father-in-law found an 1864 two cent piece in an old house in Ellicott City, MD. We would like to know how to tell the difference between the large and small motto since they look so similar. The coin looks in good condition but a little dirty. What do you recommend that we clean it with? Sincerely, Bess
Below are the design differences between 1864 2c, small and large motto varieties:
Small motto: The first “T” in trust is virtually up against the ribbon crease.
Large motto: There is a 1 mm gap on the large motto variety.
Small motto: The letters in the word “WE” are close together
Large motto: The letters in the word “WE” are widely separated.
Small motto: Stem to the leaf is plainly visible
Large motto: No stem
Cleaning the coin will destroy most of the coin’s value.
Value range: Small motto $30 – $500 (G4 – MS60), Large Motto: $5 – $65 (G4 – MS60).
