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Today in History: U.S. Congress authorizes first two-cent coin

4/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On April 22, 1864, the U.S. Congress authorized the minting of the two-cent coin, marking it as the first U.S. currency to feature the phrase "In God We Trust." Designed by James B. Longacre, the coin was produced until 1872 before being discontinued due to declining popularity in favor of other coins.

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Story summary

On April 22, 1864, the U.S. Congress authorized the minting of the two-cent coin, marking it as the first U.S. currency to feature the phrase "In God We Trust." Designed by James B. Longacre, the coin was produced until 1872 before being discontinued due to declining popularity in favor of other coins.