1860 Token Miller NY-987 Copper Woodgate & Co., F.C. Key NY

Coin Details

Description

Woodgate & Co. were dealers in wines and brandies at 904 Broadway in New York City. The firm issued copper tokens (Miller NY-969 and NY-987) that were connected to J.N.T. Levick, a prolific token issuer and distributor. The partnership with F.C. Key on at least one variety suggests a business relationship or shared advertising venture between wine merchants. Their location on upper Broadway placed them in a fashionable commercial district frequented by New York's growing middle and upper classes. The copper composition provided excellent durability for everyday handling. Merchant tokens in copper circulated freely alongside federal cents, and the familiar reddish-brown metal ensured ready acceptance in local commerce. Cataloged as Miller NY-987 in the standard reference for American merchant tokens. Collector interest in merchant store cards has grown as the tokens are increasingly recognized as primary historical documents of 19th century commerce.

Rarity Notes

Copper striking, the standard metal for merchant tokens of this period. Miller NY-987. Woodgate & Co. issued 2 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller NY-987