(1861-65) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-165L-1d, C.H. Beers OH

Coin Details

Auction Record

$576 MS63 04-15-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This Civil War token was issued by C.H. Beers, operating in Cincinnati, Ohio. Known as the "Queen of the West," Cincinnati served as a major Ohio River commercial hub. Its merchants produced hundreds of store card varieties during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. The 15 cataloged varieties for C.H. Beers indicate a notable level of token production. Struck in copper-nickel, this die combination (Fuld 165L-1d) is somewhat scarce. Each unique combination of obverse and reverse dies constitutes a separate Fuld catalog number, even when struck in the same metal. The token era ended when Congress authorized new federal small-denomination currency and criminalized private token production in 1864. Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce, resembling the federal Indian Head cent in both size and color. Over 25 million Civil War tokens were produced before Congress ended private coinage in April 1864, making them the largest private coinage movement in American history.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 15 cataloged varieties, C.H. Beers was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 165L-1d