(1863) Copper Civil War Store Card F-225BP-3a, H.A. Sealy MI

Coin Details

Description

Merchant token from H.A. Sealy of Detroit, Michigan, cataloged as Fuld 225BP-3a. Detroit's growing industrial economy made it a significant source of Civil War tokens, with merchants across the city issuing pieces to maintain commerce. H.A. Sealy issued 8 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. This copper striking (Fuld 225BP-3a) is common 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. 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

Copper strikings are generally the most common metal variant for Civil War store cards, as copper was the standard planchet material mimicking the federal cent. With 8 cataloged varieties, H.A. Sealy was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 225BP-3a