(1859) Token Miller Pa-212A White Metal William Idler

Coin Details

Description

William Idler (1820-1888) was a Philadelphia coin dealer and die sinker who was one of the earliest professional numismatists in the United States. His tokens (Miller Pa-212 and Pa-212A) in brass and white metal served as advertisements for his coin dealing business. Idler was an active participant in the American Numismatic and Archaeological Society and is remembered as one of the pioneers who helped establish coin collecting as a serious pursuit in America. This white metal piece is somewhat scarcer than copper or brass versions. Struck in white metal (a tin-lead alloy), this piece has a silvery appearance but is softer than copper or brass. White metal tokens survive in smaller numbers, as the alloy's softness made them more susceptible to bending and surface damage. William Idler issued 3 known token varieties. Cataloged as Miller Pa-212A. The dies for merchant tokens were typically cut by professional engravers, though some frontier examples show more primitive workmanship.

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. William Idler issued 3 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller Pa-212A