(1863) Zinc Civil War Store Card F-105J-3i, Hochstetter & Strauss NY

Coin Details

Description

Merchant token from Hochstetter & Strauss of New York, cataloged as Fuld 105J-3i. New York state generated the second-largest body of Civil War token issues, concentrated in New York City but extending to Albany, Troy, Buffalo, and smaller commercial centers. The zinc composition of this variety (Fuld 105J-3i) is scarce for this merchant. 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. Zinc tokens corrode easily, and surviving examples in good condition are scarce. 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

Zinc strikings are relatively uncommon and prone to corrosion, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable. With 7 cataloged varieties, Hochstetter & Strauss was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 105J-3i