(1861) Copper Civil War Sutler Token S-S10C, J.M. Longwell

Coin Details

Description

Civil War sutler token issued by J.M. Longwell, sutler to the 119th Regiment (white metal tokens) / unidentified copper unit. This 10-cent copper piece functioned as camp scrip, exchangeable for provisions and sundries at the sutler's traveling store. Sutler who issued tokens in both copper (S-S10C, dated 1861) and white metal (S-119-25WM, S-119-50WM). The dual Schenkman attributions suggest service with multiple units or tokens issued across different periods. The white metal pieces from the 119th regiment are uncommon, as white metal sutler tokens are scarce overall. Struck in copper, which produces a reddish surface that acquires a rich brown patina with age. Copper pieces generally survive in better condition than softer metals. Dated 1861, produced early in the war before token usage became widespread in military camps. 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. The federal government eliminated the sutler system entirely in 1866, replacing it with the post exchange system.

Rarity Notes

Schenkman S-S10C. 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-S10C