1860 Token Miller NY-1010 White Metal M.L. Marshall

Coin Details

Description

Morgan L. Marshall was born in Vernon, New York in 1822 and operated a variety store at 202 West First Street in Oswego, New York. His shop sold an eclectic assortment of goods including Berlin wools, embroidery supplies, fishing tackle, toys, and rare coins. Marshall's tokens (Miller NY-1007 and NY-1010) in silver and white metal reflect his dual interests in retail commerce and numismatics. The use of silver for a merchant token is unusual, indicating either a premium collector issue or Marshall's personal interest in precious metal pieces as a coin dealer. His store served the port city of Oswego on Lake Ontario, a busy commercial center for the Great Lakes trade. This white metal piece is somewhat scarcer than copper or brass versions. The white metal composition — a tin-based alloy — produced a bright, coin-like surface that wore less attractively than copper or brass. White metal tokens are scarcer than base metal issues, as the softer alloy was more prone to damage. M.L. Marshall (Morgan L. Marshall) issued 2 known token varieties. Cataloged as Miller NY-1010.

Rarity Notes

White metal and silvered strikings are less common than copper or brass versions and tend to show more wear due to softer alloy composition. M.L. Marshall (Morgan L. Marshall) issued 2 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller NY-1010