1861 Token R-CT-HA-15, Alfred Robinson

Coin Details

Auction Record

$300 MS63 08-21-2019 Heritage Auctions

Description

Civil War patriotic token by Alfred Robinson, cataloged as Rulau CT-HA-15. The Robinson brothers of Attleboro, Massachusetts were among the most prolific producers of Civil War tokens, manufacturing vast quantities on modern screw presses. Their large-scale operation helped ensure the token supply met commercial demand during the currency shortage. Struck in white metal (a lead-tin alloy), producing a silvery appearance. White metal tokens are scarcer than copper and often show softer details due to the alloy's lower hardness. Robinson-produced tokens are among the most commonly encountered Civil War varieties. The Civil War coin shortage began in late 1861 when Americans hoarded gold, silver, and eventually copper coins. Private die sinkers and token manufacturers filled the gap, producing millions of cent-sized pieces that merchants accepted as substitutes for federal coinage.

Rarity Notes

Rulau CT-HA-15. Robinson-produced tokens survive in larger quantities due to the firm's industrial-scale production. White metal (lead/tin alloy) strikes are scarcer than copper.

Cross References

Rulau CT-HA-15