(1836) Copper Token HT-324A, Squire & Merritt NY

Coin Details

Description

This 1836 copper Squire & Merritt variety is a sub-variety of HT-324, distinguished by minor die differences introduced during the same production period. The "A" suffix indicates this piece shares enough characteristics with HT-324 to be grouped with it while possessing sufficient differences to warrant separate classification. Sub-varieties like HT-324A typically result from die repairs, re-engraving of worn die portions, or the pairing of an existing obverse die with a newly cut reverse die. These production variations provide insights into the manufacturing processes used by private token makers who supplied waterfront merchants. The steady wear on dies from high-volume production runs for busy commercial firms like Squire & Merritt frequently necessitated die maintenance or replacement. The complete Squire & Merritt token series, with its multiple die varieties and both copper and silver compositions, represents one of the most comprehensive documents of a single merchant's token production in the Hard Times era. The series forms a self-contained collecting specialty within the broader Hard Times Token field.

Rarity Notes

Common. Sub-variety of HT-324 with similar availability. Rarity R-1 to R-2.

Cross References

Rulau HT-324A