1860 Token Miller Pa-95A Silvered White Metal Idler-Cogan

Coin Details

Description

Edward Cogan (1803-1884) was one of the most important early American coin dealers, operating from Philadelphia beginning in the late 1850s. Born in England, Cogan emigrated to the United States and became a pioneering figure in the American numismatic trade. He conducted numerous auction sales of coins and medals and was a member of the American Numismatic Society. His extensive series of tokens (Miller Pa-90 through Pa-101) served as business cards for his numismatic dealership and are themselves collected as significant examples of the token art form. This silvered piece was treated with a thin silver coating over the base metal, providing an attractive finish that elevated it above standard copper or brass tokens. The silvering process added cost and restricted production quantities. With 7 known token varieties, Edward Cogan was an active issuer of merchant tokens. Cataloged as Miller Pa-95A. The dies for merchant tokens were typically cut by professional engravers, though some frontier examples show more primitive workmanship.

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. Edward Cogan issued 7 known token varieties.

Cross References

Miller Pa-95A