(1845-55) Token Miller NY-1019 Brass Olcott & Brother

Coin Details

Auction Record

$132 MS64 09-02-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

Olcott & Brother operated in Rochester, New York, not New York City as sometimes assumed. The firm's brass token (Miller NY-1019) features a locomotive headlight motif, suggesting involvement in the lamp or lighting trade. Rochester was a major commercial hub along the Erie Canal corridor during the 1840s-1850s, with extensive manufacturing and mercantile activity. The token reflects the common practice among mid-century merchants of issuing advertising tokens to promote their businesses. The brass alloy provided this token with a golden luster that differentiated it from common copper cents. Brass tokens were perceived as slightly more valuable than copper issues, making them more likely to be retained by recipients. Cataloged as Miller NY-1019. The craftsmanship of merchant store card dies reflects the skill of 19th century American die sinkers, who produced detailed designs using hand-cut steel dies. Collector interest in merchant store cards has grown as the tokens are increasingly recognized as primary historical documents of 19th century commerce.

Rarity Notes

Brass strikings are among the more commonly encountered metal variants for merchant tokens.

Cross References

Miller NY-1019