(1863) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-240A-2d, Ruhl's OH

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,140 MS64 09-21-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

Store card of Ruhl's in Defiance, Ohio, struck during the 1862-1864 token era. Ohio produced more varieties of Civil War store cards than any other state, driven by Cincinnati's role as the largest inland city and a Union Army supply hub. Ruhl's issued 9 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. The copper-nickel composition of this variety (Fuld 240A-2d) is somewhat scarce for this merchant. 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. Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce, resembling the federal Indian Head cent in both size and color. 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-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 9 cataloged varieties, Ruhl's was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 240A-2d