(1833) Brass Token HT-7A, Jackson, Large Shield

Coin Details

Auction Record

$780 AU58 08-20-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This brass variety of the 1833 Jackson "Large Shield" token shares the same basic design as HT-7 but represents a distinct die state or variant recognized in the Rulau cataloging system. The obverse bears Jackson's portrait with "Large Shield" reverse imagery that connects the president's Bank War to themes of national defense and sovereignty. The designation "7A" in the Rulau system indicates a recognizable variant of the HT-7 type, typically distinguished by die differences, planchet variations, or edge treatments that set it apart from the base number. Such variants are characteristic of private mint production, where multiple die pairs might be used to meet demand, and where the absence of strict quality controls at federal mint standards meant that each die combination could produce subtly or significantly different results. Brass Hard Times Tokens from the early 1830s are among the most historically significant pieces in American token coinage. They document in real time the political struggles that reshaped American banking, constitutional law, and the relationship between the executive branch and Congress. The Jackson "shield" series, in particular, captures the moment when the presidency transformed from a relatively constrained office into the center of activist governance that Jackson's opponents decried as "King Andrew" tyranny.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Brass variant with limited surviving population.

Cross References

Low 7; Rulau HT-7A