1867 2C Doubled Die Obverse, BN Two Cents
The 1867 2 Cent Doubled Die Obverse coin is a celebrated collectible within numismatic circles due to its unique anomaly in the minting process. This coin emerged during an era when the United States Mint, under considerable pressure to produce currency post-Civil War, occasionally produced coins bearing such distinctive characteristics. The mintage for the 1867 2 Cent piece was approximately 2,938,750, although the exact number of coins exhibiting the doubled die obverse is significantly lower, contributing to its rarity.
Features and Details:
Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this variety is particularly noted for its doubled image on the obverse, visible upon close examination. The most prominent doubling is apparent on the word "IN GOD WE TRUST" on the banner above the shield. Such doubling occurs due to a misalignment during the hubbing process, making each specimen unique and more desirable for collectors.
Value and Past Sales:
The market value of the 1867 2 Cent Doubled Die Obverse varies substantially based on its condition and the clarity of the doubling. Brown (BN) coins, denoted by PCGS to signify the color of the patina, can fetch prices ranging into the thousands of dollars in higher grades such as Mint State. Recently, sales records show that an MS65 BN example might achieve figures close to $4,000 or more. The coin's value is significantly supported by the demand among collectors who prize error coins and historical U.S. numismatics.
Notable Sales and Auctions:
High-grade examples of the 1867 2 Cent Doubled Die Obverse have made headlines through prominent auctions. A particularly notable sale was executed at a major numismatic auction house where an MS64 BN fetched substantial interest, closing at over $3,500. Such sales highlight both the continuous demand and competitive bidding that surrounds coins of this variety and condition.
Historical Context from a Numismatist's Perspective:
Introduced in 1864, the 2 Cent piece was part of the broader attempt to alleviate coin shortages and facilitate everyday transactions during and after the Civil War. The denomination was short-lived, discontinued in 1873, but during its production years, the series became a platform for several design and minting variations, including the doubled die type. From a numismatist’s point of view, the 1867 doubled die obverse offers tangible insight into mid-19th-century minting practices and challenges.
PCGS CoinFacts Certification:
On PCGS CoinFacts, the 1867 2 Cent Doubled Die Obverse is listed under the certification number 3594. The PCGS registry provides critical insights and stats for U.S. coins, supporting numismatists in verifying authenticity and assessing market value. Overall, the 1867 2 Cent Doubled Die Obverse stands as a remarkable piece of U.S. numismatic history, capturing collectors' imaginations and affirming its place as a treasure in the realm of coin collecting.
