(1853) Token Miller NY-31 Brass James, Clark & Co.

Coin Details

Description

James, Clark & Co. were New York City merchants whose tokens (Miller NY-30 and NY-31) in brass date to 1853. The partnership operated during a period of commercial expansion in New York City, when the completion of the Erie Canal (1825) and the growth of railroad networks had established the city as the nation's undisputed commercial capital. 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. James, Clark & Co. issued 2 known token varieties. Cataloged as Miller NY-31. Pre-Civil War merchant tokens circulated during a period of chronic small change shortages, when copper tokens filled an essential gap in the American monetary system. Merchant store cards represent one of the most diverse collecting fields in American numismatics, spanning hundreds of merchants across dozens of states.

Rarity Notes

Brass strikings are among the more commonly encountered metal variants for merchant tokens. James, Clark & Co. issued 2 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller NY-31