1860 Token Miller NY-2054 White Metal Great Eastern

Coin Details

Auction Record

$84 MS61 11-17-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

These tokens (Miller NY-2054 and NY-2054A) commemorate the SS Great Eastern, the largest ship in the world when launched in 1858. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Great Eastern visited New York Harbor in 1860, attracting enormous crowds. The ship was 692 feet long and could carry 4,000 passengers. Enterprising token makers issued commemorative pieces to capitalize on public fascination with the engineering marvel. The Great Eastern later gained fame for laying the successful transatlantic telegraph cable in 1866. This white metal piece is somewhat scarcer than copper or brass versions. Struck in white metal (a tin-lead alloy), this piece has a silvery appearance but is softer than copper or brass. White metal tokens survive in smaller numbers, as the alloy's softness made them more susceptible to bending and surface damage. Great Eastern issued 2 known token varieties. Cataloged as Miller NY-2054. The numismatic market for merchant store cards has grown steadily, with rare varieties commanding significant premiums at major auctions.

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. Great Eastern issued 2 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller NY-2054