(1837) Token HT-417A, Philadelphia PA

Coin Details

Description

This Philadelphia token is connected to Snyder & Shankland, drapers and tailors at 102 South Fifth Street, corner of Powell Street. The firm advertised "Constantly on Hand An Assortment of Fashionale Cloth Cassimeres Vestings Which Will Be Made To Order On Reasonable Terms"—with the notable misspelling "FASHIONALE" (missing the "B") permanently preserved in the die. Snyder & Shankland's business as custom tailors and fabric sellers placed them in the personal services sector of Philadelphia's economy. Unlike the hardware and dry goods importers who dominated Market Street, tailoring firms sold both materials and skilled labor, measuring and fitting individual customers for bespoke garments. The "cassimeres" (cashmeres) and "vestings" in their inventory were fine fabrics used for men's suits, coats, and waistcoats. The obverse features a cherub shooting a bow and arrow—an unusual and charming design that distinguishes this token from the text-heavy or commercially symbolic designs of most Philadelphia merchant pieces. The cupid imagery was chosen to suggest the elegance and refinement of the firm's tailoring services, or it may simply have been an attractive stock die available from the token manufacturer.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Drapers and tailors. Notable "FASHIONALE" misspelling on reverse.

Cross References

Rulau HT-417A