(1864) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-105Q-5d, Sohm & Rohmann NY

Coin Details

Description

Merchant token from Sohm & Rohmann of New York, cataloged as Fuld 105Q-5d. 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 copper-nickel striking (Fuld 105Q-5d) is somewhat scarce among the known varieties. Professional die sinkers like John Stanton, Benjamin True, and William Bridgens supplied dies to merchants across the Northern states. Federal coinage vanished from circulation after 1861 as citizens hoarded silver and copper for their metal value, leaving merchants to fill the void with tokens. Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce, resembling the federal Indian Head cent in both size and color. Token production peaked in 1863 when the coin shortage was most acute, with die sinkers working around the clock to fill merchant orders.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 8 cataloged varieties, Sohm & Rohmann was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 105Q-5d