(1835-8) Token HT-299, German-Silver N.Y. & Harlaem Railroad Co. NY

Coin Details

Auction Record

$900 AU55 08-20-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This German silver variety of the New York & Harlem Railroad token features the same horse-drawn rail car design as HT-298 but struck in German silver (an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc also known as nickel silver). The silvery-white color of German silver distinguished this piece from the standard copper issues and was intended for a different purpose — as a fare token for a specific class of service or as a premium souvenir piece. German silver was a popular material for tokens and medals in the 1830s because it was harder and more durable than copper, resistant to tarnishing, and had an attractive silver-like appearance without the cost of actual silver. For railroad tokens that might see heavy use as fare media, the durability of German silver was a practical advantage over softer copper. The New York & Harlem Railroad expanded rapidly during the 1830s, extending its route northward through Manhattan and into Westchester County. By 1837, the railroad had reached White Plains, 24 miles from its downtown terminus, and was carrying thousands of passengers daily on both commuter and long-distance routes. The railroad eventually became part of the Vanderbilt railroad empire and was absorbed into the New York Central system.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. German silver variety is less common than the copper issues. Rarity R-3 to R-4.

Cross References

Rulau HT-299