Two-Cent and Three-Cent Pieces: America’s Odd-Denomination Coins
The U.S. once made two-cent and three-cent coins. Learn their history, the first coin with IN GOD WE TRUST, and what these odd coins are worth.
Most people are surprised to learn that the U.S. once made two-cent and three-cent coins. They were created in the mid-1800s to solve specific problems, and they turn up in older collections more often than you’d think. Here’s their story.
The Two-Cent Piece (1864 to 1873)
The Civil War caused a shortage of coins, as people hoarded anything made of silver or gold. The two-cent piece was introduced in 1864 to help fill the gap.
- Made of bronze, like the Indian Head cents of the time
- Designed by James B. Longacre
- The first U.S. coin with the motto IN GOD WE TRUST, on a ribbon above the shield
- Made from 1864 to 1873. The final year, 1873, was made only as proofs for collectors.
The 1864 “Small Motto” variety, with smaller letters in the motto, is scarcer than the common Large Motto. The 1872 is also a scarce date.
The Three-Cent Silver (1851 to 1873)
When postage dropped to three cents in 1851, a three-cent coin made sense. The three-cent silver, nicknamed the “trime,” is the smallest U.S. coin ever made, about the size of a fingernail.
- First made of 75% silver, later changed to 90% silver in 1854
- Its tiny size made it easy to lose, and it wasn’t popular
The Three-Cent Nickel (1865 to 1889)
After the Civil War, a three-cent coin made of copper and nickel replaced the silver version in everyday use. It’s larger than the trime and looks a bit like a small nickel. It was made until 1889.
What Are They Worth?
All three coins are worth well above face value, even in worn condition, because they’re 150 years old and no longer made. Value depends on:
- Date: Low-mintage dates and proof-only years are scarce
- Condition: Sharp detail and original color bring more
- Problems: Cleaning, corrosion, and holes lower value
Two-cent pieces are often dark brown from age, and that’s normal. Don’t clean them.
More guides: large cents and half cents, Indian Head pennies, Liberty Head “V” nickels, Seated Liberty coins.
The Bottom Line
The two-cent piece, three-cent silver, and three-cent nickel are fascinating pieces of American history, from the Civil War coin shortage to the first IN GOD WE TRUST coin. They’re all worth more than face value and are fun additions to any collection.
Have odd old coins like these? JoCo Coin Shop offers honest, no-obligation appraisals across the Kansas City area. Contact me by phone, text, or email to get started.
