1860 Token DeWitt-AL-1860-51 Copper Abraham Lincoln Campaign

Coin Details

Description

This copper campaign token for Abraham Lincoln from the 1860 election is cataloged as DeWitt AL-1860-51, the copper variant of the same die used for the brass PCGS #811660. The existence of multiple metal variants of the same DeWitt type was standard practice among die-sinkers, who maximized the commercial value of their die investment by striking tokens in whatever metals were available or requested. Copper tokens tend to survive in better condition than brass because copper develops a more stable and protective patina over time. Lincoln's 1860 campaign material documents the visual culture of a transformative election — the tokens, medals, and other material artifacts constitute a physical archive of how the Republican Party presented its candidate and its message to the Northern electorate. This copper variant of the AL-1860-51 type represents one data point in that archive, documenting both the die-sinker's artistic interpretation of Lincoln and the commercial market for campaign material in multiple compositions. Copper strikings are typically produced in smaller quantities than brass or white metal, making them scarcer in the numismatic market.

Rarity Notes

Copper campaign token from 1860. DeWitt AL-1860-51. Same dies as brass PCGS #811660. Copper variant is typically scarcer.

Cross References

PCGS #930082; DeWitt AL-1860-51 (copper); 1860 Presidential Election; Abraham Lincoln