(1863) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-30A-3d, Parsons & Barlow WI

Coin Details

Description

Store card of Parsons & Barlow in Appleton, Wisconsin, struck during the 1862-1864 token era. G. Parsons operated a fireworks business in New York City and issued tokens advertising "G. PARSONS FIREWORKS" in 1863. Some varieties are extremely rare (R-8), including a German Silver striking that is unique as the only certified example. The large number of die combinations indicates either a long production run or deliberate creation of varieties. The copper-nickel composition of this variety (Fuld 30A-3d) is somewhat scarce for this merchant. Die sinkers produced these tokens on hand-operated screw presses, often filling orders for multiple merchants simultaneously. The Civil War small change crisis generated the largest private coinage movement in American history, with merchants and die sinkers producing tokens for circulation. The copper-nickel composition gave these tokens the closest resemblance to federal coinage of any metal variant.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 10 cataloged varieties, Parsons & Barlow was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 30A-3d