(1860-65) Civil War Patriotic Token F-247/377a, Constitution

Coin Details

Auction Record

$75 MS63BN 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

Civil War patriotic token combining Fuld obverse die 247, a design inscribed "THE CONSTITUTION" or with constitutional references, with reverse die 377 bearing the inscription "THE CONSTITUTION". Constitutional references underscored the legal basis for opposing secession. Dies in this range encompass naval scenes, constitutional inscriptions, and fraternal symbols. The variety demonstrates that Civil War tokens served not only as emergency currency but also as miniature propaganda platforms for causes ranging from Union patriotism to fraternal solidarity. Struck in copper, the most practical metal for tokens intended to fill the gap left by hoarded federal cents. Copper tokens survive in greater numbers than any other composition, reflecting their enormous production volumes. Bearing the date 1860-65. The end of the token era came swiftly in 1864 when Congress authorized new small-denomination currency and criminalized private token production. Surviving specimens are tangible artifacts of a brief but remarkable chapter in American monetary history.

Rarity Notes

Fuld 247/377a. Die pairing: obverse 247, reverse 377. Copper is the most common composition, representing the majority of surviving specimens. The Fuld rarity scale ranges from R-1 (over 5,000 known) to R-10 (unique); survival depends on the specific die combination, metal, and condition.

Cross References

Fuld 247/377a