(1876) Brass Token Pa-Ph 226, Mule w/ Pa-Ph 231 Obv

Coin Details

Description

Struck in brass, this die mule (Pa-Ph 226) pairs the Exposition building reverse die showing Memorial Hall, the permanent art gallery structure with the Centennial commemorative die with Independence Hall facade. Produced at the Lingg & Bro. shop at 36 North 8th Street in Philadelphia, mule tokens were created as special collector pieces by combining dies from unrelated token series. Die mules occupy a specialized niche within the Centennial series, prized by collectors for their unusual die combinations and relative scarcity. Struck in brass (a copper-zinc alloy), a premium composition for Centennial tokens. The golden color made brass pieces stand out among the more common white metal and copper tokens. The massive influx of Centennial visitors boosted Philadelphia commerce well beyond the Exposition grounds, benefiting hotels, restaurants, dry goods stores, and specialty shops across the city.

Rarity Notes

This mule variety (Pa-Ph 226) in brass is uncommon. Die mules represent a specialized collecting area within the broader Centennial token series.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 226; PCGS #694559