(1864) Copper-Nickel Civil War Store Card F-510O-1d, C.E. Graff WI

Coin Details

Description

Store card of C.E. Graff in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, struck during the 1862-1864 token era. Milwaukee was Wisconsin's largest city and a major brewing and manufacturing center, with its large German immigrant population strongly supporting the Union cause. The 15 cataloged varieties for C.E. Graff indicate a notable level of token production. The copper-nickel composition of this variety (Fuld 510O-1d) is somewhat 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. 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 Civil War store cards are collected both as numismatic items and as historical documents of wartime American commerce.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 15 cataloged varieties, C.E. Graff was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 510O-1d