(1863) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-165GN-6d, Wine Steiner OH

Coin Details

Auction Record

$720 MS65 01-12-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

Wine Steiner of Cincinnati issued this token as emergency currency during the Civil War coin shortage. Known as the "Queen of the West," Cincinnati served as a major Ohio River commercial hub. Its merchants produced hundreds of store card varieties during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. The 10 cataloged varieties for Wine Steiner indicate a notable level of token production. The copper-nickel composition of this variety (Fuld 165GN-6d) is somewhat scarce for this merchant. Die sinkers offered merchants a choice of metals, with copper being cheapest and most common, while silver and gold were struck for collectors. 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 10 cataloged varieties, Wine Steiner was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 165GN-6d