(1863) German-Silver Civil War Store Card F-630BB-15, GW-627 399 B'Way NY

Coin Details

Auction Record

$228 MS66 11-18-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

Store card of GW-627 399 B'Way in New York, struck during the 1862-1864 token era. New York was the nation's commercial capital, with New York City alone producing hundreds of store card varieties from Broadway retailers to waterfront wholesalers. This german-silver striking (Fuld 630BB-15) is scarce among the known varieties. The token trade was competitive, with die sinkers in New York, Cincinnati, and other cities vying for merchant orders across the region. The hoarding of federal coinage created an acute shortage of small change, prompting thousands of merchants to issue tokens as practical substitutes. German silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy) strikings are sought after for their distinctive bright appearance. Civil War store cards are collected both as numismatic items and as historical documents of wartime American commerce.

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 81 cataloged varieties, GW-627 399 B'Way was one of the most prolific merchants in the series.

Cross References

Fuld 630BB-15