(1876) Brass Token Pa-Ph 229, Mule w/Pa-Ph 230 Obv.

Coin Details

Description

This brass die mule (Pa-Ph 229) combines two unrelated Centennial token dies: the Centennial commemorative die with Liberty Bell design, the central symbol of the Exposition paired with the Centennial commemorative die featuring George Washington portrait bust. The Lingg firm created mule combinations by pairing obverse and reverse dies from different merchant or commemorative series, producing distinctive cross-die varieties. Die mules survive in smaller quantities than standard merchant issues, as they were produced deliberately for the collector market rather than for mass distribution. Brass tokens featured a distinctive gold-like appearance that elevated them above copper and white metal pieces in the Centennial souvenir hierarchy. The Centennial drew nearly ten million visitors to Philadelphia between May and November 1876, a figure that transformed the city's economy and created a booming market for portable souvenirs.

Rarity Notes

This mule variety (Pa-Ph 229) in brass is uncommon. Die mules represent a specialized collecting area within the broader Centennial token series.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 229; PCGS #694415