(1850) Token Miller Mo-22 Gilt Brass Fitzgibbon Daguerrotype

Coin Details

Description

John H. Fitzgibbon (1816-1882) was a pioneering St. Louis daguerreotypist who opened one of the first photographic studios west of the Mississippi River. His tokens (Miller Mo-22) in brass and gilt brass advertised his photographic services. Fitzgibbon was known for photographing Native Americans and frontier scenes, creating an invaluable historical record of the American West. He won the Anthony Prize for the best daguerreotype at the 1853 Crystal Palace Exhibition in New York. The gilt finish over the base metal provided an eye-catching golden surface that would have attracted immediate attention. Gilt tokens were more expensive to produce and are scarcer than unfinished brass or copper versions. Fitzgibbon Daguerreotype issued 2 known token varieties. Cataloged as Miller Mo-22. 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.

Rarity Notes

Gilt pieces are somewhat scarcer than plain brass or copper versions, as the gilding process added cost to production. Fitzgibbon Daguerreotype issued 2 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller Mo-22