(1858) Token Miller-NY-495 White Metal Boy and Dog NY

Coin Details

Auction Record

$168 MS62 04-26-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

This white metal token (Miller NY-495) features a "Boy and Dog" design, a popular sentimental motif in Victorian-era decorative arts. The identity of the issuing merchant is uncertain, as the token's primary design element is pictorial rather than commercial. Such tokens may have served as general-purpose trade pieces or as advertising for a merchant whose name appeared on the reverse die. This white metal piece is somewhat scarcer than copper or brass versions. This white metal piece has a distinctive silvery sheen produced by the tin-based alloy. White metal tokens were less durable than copper or brass, and well-preserved examples are correspondingly scarcer. Cataloged as Miller NY-495. American merchant tokens represent an important chapter in the economic history of the United States, documenting the businesses, products, and commercial practices of the 19th century. Merchant store cards represent one of the most diverse collecting fields in American numismatics, spanning hundreds of merchants across dozens of states.

Rarity Notes

White metal and silvered strikings are less common than copper or brass versions and tend to show more wear due to softer alloy composition.

Cross References

Miller NY-495