(1840) Token HT-77B, Martin Van Buren

Coin Details

Auction Record

$384 XF45 03-31-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This gilt copper Van Buren campaign token from 1840 features a gold wash over the copper substrate, giving it an eye-catching golden appearance. The 24mm half-cent-sized format and gilded finish together indicate a premium campaign piece intended for prominent display or presentation. Gilt tokens occupied the top tier of mass-produced campaign merchandise in 1840, below only solid precious metal pieces in prestige. The gold-like appearance of the gilding would have made this token particularly impressive when worn on a lapel or watch chain, catching light and drawing attention to the wearer's political allegiance. The gilding also helped protect the copper surface from the green patina (verdigris) that develops on unprotected copper, preserving the token's appearance over extended use. The survival of gilt campaign tokens is affected by the fragility of the gilding layer, which wears away with handling and can be damaged by environmental exposure. Examples retaining substantial original gilding are valued by collectors for their visual impact and documentary value, as they show the token closer to its original appearance when new — a perspective that is lost on heavily worn plain copper pieces.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Gilt copper in half-cent size is an uncommon combination. Few examples with substantial remaining gilding.

Cross References

Low 194; Rulau HT-77B