(1835) Token HT-171A, Boston MA

Coin Details

Description

This 1835 white metal token is a composition variant of the Alfred D. Willard copper issue (HT-171) from Boston, Massachusetts. White metal — a general term for tin-based alloys including pewter and britannia metal — gave the token a silvery appearance that distinguished it from the copper tokens and large cents of daily commerce. White metal tokens are typically lighter than their copper counterparts and have a softer, more easily damaged surface. The production of white metal varieties alongside standard copper issues was common among Massachusetts merchants, particularly those with access to the diverse metalworking capabilities of the Attleboro manufacturing district and Boston's own metalworking trades. White metal could be cast or struck at lower temperatures than copper, and the resulting tokens had a visual appeal that enhanced their advertising impact. Alfred Willard's two-composition token program (copper HT-171 and white metal HT-171A) represents a modest but well-executed advertising campaign. The copper version provided widespread circulation as a cent substitute, while the white metal variety served as a more distinctive and memorable advertising piece for targeted distribution.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. White metal composition variant. Rarity R-3.

Cross References

Rulau HT-171A