(1842) Token HT-399, C.W. Bender Philadelphia

Coin Details

Description

This copper token advertises the Star Hotel operated by C.W. Bender at 71 Dock Street in Philadelphia. The obverse features the date "1842" with the numeral "42" positioned inverted relative to "18," creating a distinctive visual curiosity that makes this token immediately recognizable among Hard Times merchant pieces. The reverse identifies the establishment and proprietor. Dock Street was one of Philadelphia's oldest commercial thoroughfares, running along the waterfront where Delaware River shipping activity concentrated. Hotels along Dock Street served sailors, merchants, and travelers arriving by ship. Bender's Star Hotel occupied a prime location in this busy maritime district, providing lodging, meals, and refreshment to the transient commercial population. The inverted "42" on the obverse may represent an intentional die-cutting novelty designed to attract attention and make the token memorable, or it may reflect an engraving error that was retained rather than corrected. Either way, the unusual date format has made HT-399 a conversation piece among Hard Times token collectors and a desirable variety for error enthusiasts.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Rarity R-6. The inverted date variety makes this a distinctive and sought-after piece.

Cross References

Rulau HT-399, Low-181