(1876) Brass Token NY-NY 830B, J.W. Scott & Co.

Coin Details

Description

J.W. Scott & Co. issued this brass souvenir token (NY-NY 830B) as advertising during the 1876 Centennial. J. Walter Scott and Company, prominent NYC stamp and coin dealers who published the Scott Stamp Catalogue. Scott likely recognized the souvenir token as a future collectible. Brass Centennial tokens were typically reserved for preferred customers or sold at a modest premium over white metal pieces, resulting in smaller surviving populations. Centennial merchant tokens overwhelmingly bear the workmanship of the Lingg firm, whose die-sinking expertise made them the default manufacturer for Philadelphia businesses. Between its May opening and November closing, the Centennial attracted nearly ten million visitors — more than the entire population of New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia combined. The appeal of Centennial tokens lay in their dual function — merchants gained advertising that traveled with visitors back to their home cities, while visitors acquired an affordable, lasting souvenir.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as NY-NY 830B, this brass variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

NY-NY 830B; PCGS #525381