(1859) Copper Token Rulau Ma-Bo 78, Heenan, Merriam Die Sinker

Coin Details

Description

Copper token bearing the name of Heenan and die sinker Joseph H. Merriam of Boston, 1859. This is the companion piece to Ma-Bo 77 (Sayers), together commemorating the legendary bare-knuckle boxing rivalry between American John C. Heenan and English champion Tom Sayers. Their April 17, 1860 fight at Farnborough, England, was declared a draw after 42 brutal rounds and became one of the most celebrated sporting events of the 19th century. Merriam produced both tokens in anticipation of the much-publicized match. Copper, 22mm. Antebellum-era tokens from the 1840s and 1850s bridge the gap between the Hard Times period and the Civil War token explosion, documenting American commercial life during a period of rapid westward expansion. Boston and its surrounding towns were among the earliest centers of American token production, with die sinkers like Joseph H. Merriam and John Adams Bolen establishing the craft.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Companion to Ma-Bo 77 (Sayers), together forming a matched pair commemorating the Sayers-Heenan fight. The pair is more valuable together than individually. Collected by boxing memorabilia enthusiasts, Boston numismatists, and specialists in sporting exonumia.

Cross References

Rulau Ma-Bo 78; PCGS #969031