(1853-58) Token Miller LA-10B, N.C. Folger Brass

Coin Details

Description

N.C. Folger was a New Orleans merchant who issued multiple token varieties (Miller LA-10 through LA-15) in copper, brass, and gilt brass over a period of several years. New Orleans was the largest city in the antebellum South and a major port handling cotton, sugar, and goods from the Mississippi River trade. Folger's sustained token production indicates an established business with a commitment to token advertising. Struck in brass, this token presented a distinctive golden color that set it apart from the standard copper cent. Merchants who chose brass planchets benefited from the eye-catching appearance while keeping production costs low. With 4 known token varieties, N.C. Folger was an active issuer of merchant tokens. Cataloged as Miller LA-10B. The Miller reference catalog, compiled by Donald M. Miller, remains the standard numismatic reference for American merchant store cards and provides the definitive numbering system used by collectors and auction houses.

Rarity Notes

Brass strikings are among the more commonly encountered metal variants for merchant tokens. N.C. Folger issued 4 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller LA-10B