(1864) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-165BS-4d, J. Helmig OH

Coin Details

Description

Fuld 165BS-4d — store card of J. Helmig, Cincinnati, Ohio. Known as the "Queen of the West," Cincinnati served as a major Ohio River commercial hub. Its merchants produced hundreds of store card varieties during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. J. Helmig issued 7 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. This copper-nickel striking (Fuld 165BS-4d) is somewhat scarce among the known varieties. The dies for merchant tokens were usually cut by professional engravers who could produce a complete set in a matter of days. Store cards circulated as emergency currency after wartime hoarding removed federal coins from commercial channels. Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce, resembling the federal Indian Head cent in both size and color. Civil War store cards are collected both as numismatic items and as historical documents of wartime American commerce.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 7 cataloged varieties, J. Helmig was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 165BS-4d