1873 2c Closed 3 PR RD

The Closed 3 Variety from 1873 displays serifs on the 3 that are so close, it can be confused with an 8. This variety is slightly more common than its Open 3 counterpart. Both varieties come from a combined mintage of 300 coins. Scarce in all grades with great rarity when found in full red gem. Any cameo surfaces are considered extremely rare.

Obverse Description

An ornate shield flanked on the left and right by leaves with arrow heads and shanks (crossed behind) appear protruding at the four corners. A ribbon above the shield bears the words IN GOD WE TRUST, making this coin design the first usage this now-ubiquitous motto. The date is positioned at the bottom center.

Reverse Description

A large numeral 2 with the word CENTS below (smaller) in the center is framed by a well-defined wheat wreath tied at the bottom center by a simple ribbon. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA appears around the periphery.