(1835) Token HT-431, New Orleans LA

Coin Details

Description

This brass token from Kohn, Daron & Co. of New Orleans features a flower on the obverse within a wreath and the inscription "Good For One Load" on the reverse, indicating it functioned as a redeemable voucher for hauling or delivery services. The token measures 27mm with a plain edge. The "one load" denomination indicates the firm operated a drayage, fuel delivery, or building materials business where customers could purchase load tokens in advance. The "Good For" inscription distinguishes this token from purely advertising pieces—it had a specific redemptive value representing one delivery of whatever commodity the firm hauled. In New Orleans, such loads consisted of coal, firewood, sand, gravel, bricks, or other bulk materials essential to the city's construction and household operations. Drayage firms were critical to the city's commerce, transporting goods between the waterfront, warehouses, and customers throughout the city. This token is extremely rare, described as "missing from all but the most advanced collections." The firm name Kohn, Daron & Co. indicates a partnership between merchants of German-Jewish and French origin—reflecting New Orleans' ethnically diverse commercial community in the 1830s.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Brass, plain edge, 27mm. Redemptive drayage/delivery token.

Cross References

Rulau HT-431