(1863) Brass Civil War Store Card F-640A-3b, J. Butcher's KY

Coin Details

Description

J. Butcher's, a Newport merchant, issued this Civil War store card during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. Kentucky was a critical border state maintaining Union loyalty while deeply divided. Louisville served as a major supply depot and source of merchant tokens. J. Butcher's issued 6 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. This brass striking (Fuld 640A-3b) is common to somewhat scarce among the known varieties. The dies for merchant tokens were usually cut by professional engravers who could produce a complete set in a matter of days. Private tokens entered circulation after the suspension of specie payments in late 1861 drained small change from commerce. Brass planchets were readily available to die sinkers, making this a relatively accessible metal variant for collectors. Over 25 million Civil War tokens were produced before Congress ended private coinage in April 1864, making them the largest private coinage movement in American history.

Rarity Notes

Brass strikings are among the more available metal variants, though typically less common than copper. With 6 cataloged varieties, J. Butcher's was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 640A-3b