(1837) Token HT-295A, New York NY

Coin Details

Description

This variety of the James G. Moffet brass founder token differs from the standard HT-295 in minor die details while maintaining the same basic design: the shielded eagle with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" banner on the obverse and the listing of Moffet's products on the reverse. Moffet's foundry at 121 Prince Street produced brass sheet, plater's brass, counter railings, and items in gold, silver, and German silver. The token varieties attributed to Moffet (HT-295 through HT-297) were produced at his own foundry, making Moffet one of the few Hard Times Token merchants who manufactured their own advertising pieces rather than contracting with a specialized token maker like Scovill. As a brass founder with die-cutting and striking capabilities, Moffet had the equipment and expertise to produce tokens in-house. Prince Street in the 1830s was part of the SoHo neighborhood, which was then a bustling commercial district rather than the fashionable residential and artistic quarter it later became. The concentration of foundries, workshops, and manufacturing establishments in the area made it a natural location for a brass founder whose customers included architects, builders, and interior decorators seeking custom metalwork.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Less frequently encountered than HT-295. Rarity R-3.

Cross References

Rulau HT-295A