(1861-65) Lead Civil War Store Card F-145B-1g, G.L. Bowne NY

Coin Details

Auction Record

$264 MS62 04-15-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

G.L. Bowne of New York produced this token as a cent substitute during the wartime coin shortage. G.L. Bowne operated "The Iron Clad" hardware store in Cooperstown, New York — a business name cleverly referencing both ironclad warships and the iron goods sold within. His tokens read "WILL REDEEM AT THE IRON CLAD / G.L. BOWNE." The Iron Clad Building at 92 Main Street is now a contributing structure to the Cooperstown Historic District. This lead striking (Fuld 145B-1g) is scarce among the known varieties. The token trade was competitive, with die sinkers in New York, Cincinnati, and other cities vying for merchant orders across the region. The hoarding of federal coinage created an acute shortage of small change, prompting thousands of merchants to issue tokens as practical substitutes. Lead examples are rare survivors, as the soft metal is easily damaged and many pieces were discarded.

Rarity Notes

Lead strikings are uncommon, likely produced as trial pieces or die tests rather than for commercial circulation. With 15 cataloged varieties, G.L. Bowne was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 145B-1g