1860 Token Miller NY-820 Brass Flora Temple

Coin Details

Auction Record

$264 MS64 11-21-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This token (Miller NY-820) commemorates Flora Temple, the most famous American racehorse of the 1850s. Known as the "Queen of the Trotting Turf," Flora Temple was the first horse to trot a mile in under 2 minutes and 20 seconds, setting a world record of 2:19¾ at Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1859. Her fame transcended horse racing, making her a national celebrity whose image appeared on tokens, prints, and memorabilia throughout the country. Struck in brass, this token presented a distinctive golden color that set it apart from the standard copper cent. Merchants who chose brass planchets benefited from the eye-catching appearance while keeping production costs low. Cataloged as Miller NY-820. American merchant tokens represent an important chapter in the economic history of the United States, documenting the businesses, products, and commercial practices of the 19th century. This token type is part of a broader tradition of private American coinage stretching from colonial times through the Civil War era.

Rarity Notes

Brass strikings are among the more commonly encountered metal variants for merchant tokens.

Cross References

Miller NY-820