(1833) Token HT-70, I Take The Responsibility

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,146 MS66BN 07-26-2018 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

This variety of the "I Take the Responsibility" token is distinguished by the letter "H" below the money chest on the obverse, identifying die engraver Edward Hulseman of New York. Hulseman was one of the most prolific die sinkers of the Hard Times era, responsible for cutting dies for numerous political and merchant tokens. His identification mark on this piece provides one of the few direct attributions of Hard Times Token dies to a specific craftsman. The Hulseman attribution is significant because it connects this token to a broader body of work by a known artisan. Hulseman's dies are generally recognized for their competent if not exceptional workmanship — clear lettering, recognizable portraits, and well-composed designs that served their commercial and political purposes effectively. His "H" mark appears on several other Hard Times Token varieties, allowing researchers to trace his output and identify his distinctive stylistic characteristics. The "I Take the Responsibility" design produced by Hulseman is among the most common Hard Times Tokens, indicating a large original production run. Its popularity reflects the enduring power of the design's political message and visual impact — Jackson emerging from the treasury with sword and money bag remains one of the most vivid political caricatures in American numismatic history.

Rarity Notes

Common. One of the most frequently encountered Hard Times Tokens. Rarity R-1.

Cross References

Low 51; Rulau HT-70