(1863) Token Inimica Tyrannis Silver Bolen Copy

Coin Details

Description

Civil War-era patriotic token die created by John Adams Bolen (1826-1907) of Springfield, Massachusetts. Bolen was a skilled die-sinker who produced a series of patriotic and historical tokens, mulings, and copies during and after the Civil War. Unlike most Civil War token producers who were commercial die sinkers filling emergency currency orders, Bolen was a meticulous craftsman whose work is prized by collectors for its artistic quality and historical interest. He carefully documented his production in personal records, and his dies were often restruck in various metals for the numismatic trade. Copper was the standard metal for patriotic tokens, chosen because cent-sized copper pieces could pass as substitute federal cents in everyday commerce. Congress banned private token issuance in April 1864, but Bolen continued producing numismatic pieces for collectors in later years.

Rarity Notes

Bolen tokens are collected as a distinct specialty within the Civil War token series. Most issues survive in small quantities, typically fewer than 25 specimens per die combination and metal. Copper is the most common composition, representing the majority of surviving specimens.

Cross References

Bolen (JAB) series