1868 Two-Cent Piece. Proof-66+ RD Cameo (PCGS). CAC.
This dazzling Gem will be a highlight in the finest Proof type or date set. Virtually pristine, the surfaces are silky smooth and display vivid colors in a blend of bright orange and reddish-rose. Iridescent salmon-pink highlights are also seen here and there on the obverse as the coin dips into a light. The interplay between satiny devices and mirrored fields readily upholds the Cameo designation from PCGS - rarely awarded for a Proof two-cent piece irrespective of date. Fully struck, expertly preserved, and sure to please even the most discerning collector. Born out of the troubled economic times of the Civil War, the two-cent piece was authorized by Congress through the Act of April 22, 1864. It was intended to help fill the void in circulating coinage left by the disappearance of gold and silver early in the conflict. The two-cent piece is also significant as the first circulating United States coin to bear the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. It is one of the shortest series in U.S. coinage history. While yearly mintages were generous at first, introduction of the nickel three-cent piece in 1865, and the nickel five-cent piece in 1866, resulted in a rapid decline in the usefulness of this denomination. Circulation strike production declined steadily through every year of the series, in fact, and a Proof-only delivery in 1873 closed out two-cent production for good. With an estimated mintage of 600+ pieces, the 1868 is among the more readily obtainable Proofs of this type, although it is a significant condition rarity when found with the exceptional technical quality and eye appeal offered here. This premium Gem qualifies as Condition Census for the date.
PCGS# 83638. NGC ID: 274X.
PCGS Population: 2; with a single Proof-67 RD Cameo finer in this category. CAC Population: 5; 1. The former total includes coins certified both Proof-66 RD Cameo and Proof-66+ RD Cameo.
From the George Schwenk Collection. Earlier from Heritage's sale of the Warren Collection, May 2022 CSNS Signature Auction, lot 3904; Heritage's Long Beach Signature Auction of October 2022, lot 3017.

Estimate: $15000