(1860) Civil War Patriotic Token F-247/379a, Constitution

Coin Details

Description

Civil War patriotic token combining Fuld obverse die 247, a design inscribed "THE CONSTITUTION" or with constitutional references, with reverse die 379 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. Note: Die 379 is "Not One Cent," not "Constitution" — the Constitution inscription belongs to obverse die 247. 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. Copper was overwhelmingly preferred for patriotic token production because it replicated the look, feel, and weight of federal Indian Head cents. Merchants rarely questioned copper tokens placed alongside genuine cents in the cash drawer. Dated 1860.

Rarity Notes

Fuld 247/379a. Die pairing: obverse 247, reverse 379. 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 247/379a