(1863) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-165FY-5d, D.B.S. Grocer OH

Coin Details

Description

D.B.S. Grocer, a Cincinnati merchant, issued this Civil War store card during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. Cincinnati was the largest inland city in antebellum America and a critical supply center for the Union Army, driving Ohio to produce more varieties of Civil War store cards than any other state. D.B.S. Grocer issued 7 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. The copper-nickel composition of this variety (Fuld 165FY-5d) is somewhat scarce for this merchant. The token trade was competitive, with die sinkers in New York, Cincinnati, and other cities vying for merchant orders across the region. The token era ended when Congress authorized new federal small-denomination currency and criminalized private token production in 1864. Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce, resembling the federal Indian Head cent in both size and color.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 7 cataloged varieties, D.B.S. Grocer was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 165FY-5d