(1876) Brass Token Pa-Ph 760B, John Stilz & Son

Coin Details

Auction Record

$196 MS64 09-16-2024 eBay

Description

This brass Centennial token (Pa-Ph 760B) was issued by John Stilz & Son, a clothier of Philadelphia, SE corner 7th & Market Street. A high-end men's clothing store at the southeast corner of 7th Street and Market Street, a prime Philadelphia retail location. The token obverse reads 'FINEST CLOTHING HOUSE S.E. COR. 7 AND MARKET PHILADA' — a premium advertising claim. Pa-Ph 760 features the Libertas Americana obverse, one of the most popular Centennial token designs crafted by John Adams Bolen. Brass tokens featured a distinctive gold-like appearance that elevated them above copper and white metal pieces in the Centennial souvenir hierarchy. Manufactured by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, the leading token manufacturer serving merchants during the Centennial year. Approximately ten million people visited the Centennial grounds in Fairmount Park during its six-month run, generating enormous demand for affordable keepsakes that merchants were eager to supply.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 760B, this brass variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 760B; PCGS #525269