(1861) Copper-Nickel Civil War Sutler Token S-81a-25CN, J.W. Cruikshank

Coin Details

Description

Civil War sutler token issued by J.W. Cruikshank, sutler to the 81st Ohio Volunteer Infantry. This copper-nickel token served as camp currency, redeemable for goods at the sutler's field store. 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. Struck in copper-nickel, the same alloy used for federal Indian Head cents. This composition is uncommon for sutler tokens. Dated 1861, produced early in the war before token usage became widespread in military camps.

Rarity Notes

Schenkman S-81a-25CN. 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-nickel, this variety falls within the uncommon range for the series. An estimated 4,000 to 6,000 sutler token pieces survive across all varieties.

Cross References

Schenkman S-81a-25CN