(1863) German-Silver Civil War Store Card F-150J-18j, Childs' IL

Coin Details

Auction Record

$408 MS64 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This Civil War token was issued by Child's, Die Sinker & Engraver, operating in Chicago, Illinois. Chicago was one of the fastest-growing cities in the world by 1860, rapidly becoming America's railroad hub and grain trading center with a population of 112,000. Child's, Die Sinker & Engraver produced 21 cataloged die varieties, reflecting a substantial token operation. This german-silver striking (Fuld 150J-18j) is scarce among the known varieties. Each unique combination of obverse and reverse dies constitutes a separate Fuld catalog number, even when struck in the same metal. The token era ended when Congress authorized new federal small-denomination currency and criminalized private token production in 1864. German silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy) strikings are sought after for their distinctive bright appearance. 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

German silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy) strikings are less common than copper or brass versions and are sought after for their distinctive silvery appearance. With 21 cataloged varieties, Child's, Die Sinker & Engraver was a moderately active token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 150J-18j