(1861) Copper Civil War Sutler Token S-AF5C, J.W. Cruikshank

Coin Details

Description

Civil War sutler token issued by J.W. Cruikshank, sutler to the 81st Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Struck in copper, this 5-cent token circulated as private camp currency redeemable for merchandise from the sutler. Sutler to the 81st Ohio Volunteer Infantry, originally organized as Morton's Independent Rifle Regiment. The 81st Ohio served in the Atlanta Campaign including Resaca, Dallas, Kennesaw Mountain, and Atlanta, then participated in Sherman's March to the Sea beginning November 16, 1864. A 5-cent copper token (OH S-81a-5C, R7) graded NGC MS62 Brown from the Donald G. Partrick Collection sold at Heritage Auctions. Cruikshank tokens are frequently paired at auction with Spitzer tokens from the 55th OVI. Originally organized as Morton's Independent Rifle Regiment. Served in the Atlanta Campaign including Resaca, Dallas, Kennesaw Mountain, and Atlanta, then participated in Sherman's March to the Sea. The copper surface of this token has developed the natural patina characteristic of 1860s copper coinage, with color ranging from original red to environmental brown. Dated 1861, produced early in the war before token usage became widespread in military camps.

Rarity Notes

Schenkman S-AF5C. All sutler tokens are rated R-5 or higher on the Fuld rarity scale (fewer than 200 surviving examples of any given variety). In copper, 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-AF5C