(1837) Token HT-297, James G. Moffet NY

Coin Details

Auction Record

$288 MS63BN 08-20-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

This James G. Moffet token is the most distinctive variety in the Moffet series, featuring additional misspellings beyond the reversed letters found on HT-295. The obverse eagle design with its "E PLURIBUS UNUM" banner shows multiple reversed or incorrectly formed letters, indicating either a less skilled die cutter than produced the earlier varieties or a deliberate continuation of the letter-reversal motif that had become an identifying characteristic of Moffet's tokens. The accumulation of engraving errors across the Moffet series raises questions about the die-cutting capabilities at the Prince Street foundry. While Moffet's metalworking skills were unquestioned — his business thrived for over two decades — the specialized art of die engraving required different expertise than brass founding. The reversed letters may reflect the challenges faced by a craftsman accustomed to working in positive relief who struggled with the mirror-image cutting required for intaglio die work. Despite (or because of) their engraving peculiarities, Moffet tokens are among the most character-rich pieces in the merchant Hard Times Token series. The reversed letters, product listings, and Prince Street address combine to create a vivid portrait of a working craftsman navigating the economic challenges of the late 1830s.

Rarity Notes

Common. The additional misspelling variety is well-represented among Moffet tokens. Rarity R-1.

Cross References

Low 101; Rulau HT-297