(1861-65) Brass Civil War Sutler Token S-50-5B, M.H. Sullivan & Co.

Coin Details

Description

Civil War sutler token issued by M.H. Sullivan & Co., sutler to the 50th Regiment. This 5-cent brass piece functioned as camp scrip, exchangeable for provisions and sundries at the sutler's traveling store. Sutler firm serving a 50th regiment, issuing brass 5-cent tokens (S-50-5B). The Co. designation indicates a partnership or employee-supported operation, typical of larger sutler businesses that could stock a wider variety of goods. Struck in brass, the alloy most commonly employed by sutler token manufacturers during the war years. The durability of the brass composition means that many surviving tokens retain legible inscriptions and identifiable design features. Produced during the war years when sutler tokens served as essential camp currency across Union military installations. The sutler system granted licensed civilian merchants exclusive rights to sell goods within military camps, providing soldiers access to tobacco, writing materials, candy, and personal items. Legislative action in 1866 terminated the sutler system, ending a tradition of licensed civilian merchants serving military units.

Rarity Notes

Schenkman S-50-5B. All sutler tokens are rated R-5 or higher on the Fuld rarity scale (fewer than 200 surviving examples of any given variety). In brass, this variety falls within the common range for the series. An estimated 4,000 to 6,000 sutler token pieces survive across all varieties.

Cross References

Schenkman S-50-5B