(1860-65) German-Silver Civil War Store Card F-630W-2j, Felix Dining Saloon NY

Coin Details

Description

Civil War merchant token bearing the name of Felix Dining Saloon in New York. New York state generated the second-largest body of Civil War token issues, concentrated in New York City but extending to Albany, Troy, Buffalo, and smaller commercial centers. Struck in german-silver, this die combination (Fuld 630W-2j) is scarce. Professional die sinkers like John Stanton, Benjamin True, and William Bridgens supplied dies to merchants across the Northern states. The hoarding of federal coinage created an acute shortage of small change, prompting thousands of merchants to issue tokens as practical substitutes. German silver pieces have a silvery-white color that distinguishes them from the more common copper and brass strikings. Token production peaked in 1863 when the coin shortage was most acute, with die sinkers working around the clock to fill merchant orders.

Rarity Notes

German silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy) strikings are less common than copper or brass versions and are sought after for their distinctive silvery appearance. With 12 cataloged varieties, Felix Dining Saloon was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 630W-2j