(1863) Zinc Civil War Store Card F-225BZ-4a, (mpl) -Plated L.J. Staples MI

Coin Details

Description

Merchant token from L.J. Staples of Detroit, Michigan, cataloged as Fuld 225BZ-4a. As Michigan's commercial hub, Detroit generated more Civil War token varieties than any other city in the state, reflecting its diverse merchant community. The 10 cataloged varieties for L.J. Staples indicate a notable level of token production. This zinc striking (Fuld 225BZ-4a) 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 Civil War small change crisis generated the largest private coinage movement in American history, with merchants and die sinkers producing tokens for circulation. Zinc strikings are uncommon and prone to corrosion, making preserved examples desirable. Surviving specimens are tangible artifacts of the wartime monetary crisis that affected every commercial transaction in the Northern states.

Rarity Notes

Zinc strikings are relatively uncommon and prone to corrosion, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable. With 10 cataloged varieties, L.J. Staples was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 225BZ-4a