(1860) Civil War Patriotic Token F-105/360a, Not One Cent

Coin Details

Description

Civil War patriotic token combining Fuld obverse die 105, a bust of George Washington, invoking the founding ideals of the republic to frame the Union cause as a continuation of the American Revolution, with reverse die 360 bearing the provocative legend "NOT ONE CENT" within a wreath. This seemingly contradictory inscription acknowledged the token had no legal-tender status while it simultaneously served as a cent substitute in everyday commerce. By placing George Washington's portrait on patriotic tokens, die sinkers appealed to the deepest roots of American identity. The message was unmistakable: preserving the Union honored the sacrifice of the Revolutionary generation. This copper striking represents the standard composition for patriotic tokens. Die sinkers chose copper because its properties — malleability, durability, and cent-like appearance — made it ideal for mass-produced emergency currency. Produced in 1860.

Rarity Notes

Fuld 105/360a. Die pairing: obverse 105, reverse 360. 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 105/360a