(1875) White Metal Token GW-657, Centennial Advertising

Coin Details

Description

This white metal token cataloged as GW-657 is the white metal version of the centennial advertising piece, produced circa 1875. White metal — a tin-based alloy — provided the least expensive option for centennial souvenir production, making these tokens accessible to the broadest possible audience at the centennial celebration. The silvery appearance of white metal gave the token a more festive, coin-like quality compared to the copper version, though the soft alloy was less durable. White metal centennial tokens are frequently found with corrosion, bending, or surface degradation because the composition was inherently fragile and many pieces were treated as disposable souvenirs. The GW-657 designation encompasses all three metal varieties (brass, copper, and white metal), with each composition representing a different market segment. White metal survivors in good condition are less common than copper or brass versions due to the fragility of the material.

Rarity Notes

GW-657, white metal. Centennial advertising token. Survival rate in good condition is lower than copper or brass.

Cross References

PCGS #789261; GW-657; Centennial Advertising, white metal