(1840) White Metal Token HT-K10, W.H. Harrison

Coin Details

Description

This white metal Harrison campaign token carries the "K" prefix indicating it was cataloged in the Kenney supplement to the Rulau Hard Times token reference, representing a variety discovered after the main catalog's publication. White metal—a tin-based alloy resembling silver—was used for campaign tokens intended to have a premium appearance without the cost of actual silver. The white metal composition created tokens with a bright, silvery finish that contrasted with the more common copper and brass campaign pieces. This metallic distinction served a hierarchical function within the campaign's distribution system, with common copper tokens given freely to all supporters, brass tokens sold at modest prices, and white metal and gilt pieces reserved for more committed supporters or sold as premium campaign souvenirs. The Kenney supplement to the Rulau catalog documents varieties that came to light after the primary reference was published, reflecting the ongoing process of numismatic discovery as collections are formed, studied, and dispersed. Each new variety adds to our understanding of the scope and organization of the 1840 Harrison campaign's token production, which remains the most extensive political token series in American numismatic history.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. White metal. Kenney supplement addition to the Harrison campaign token series.

Cross References

Rulau HT-K10