(1863) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-385A-4d, John Deinzer OH

Coin Details

Auction Record

$600 MS64 10-14-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

Civil War-era store card from John Deinzer, a Hamilton, Ohio business. 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. John Deinzer issued 7 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. Struck in copper-nickel, this die combination (Fuld 385A-4d) is somewhat scarce. 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. The copper-nickel composition gave these tokens the closest resemblance to federal coinage of any metal variant. 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 7 cataloged varieties, John Deinzer was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 385A-4d