(1876) Brass Token Pa-Ph 892B, Thomas DePuy

Coin Details

Auction Record

$264 MS65 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This brass Centennial token (Pa-Ph 892B) was issued by Thomas DePuy, a general merchandise dealer of Philadelphia. A Philadelphia merchant who commissioned seven varieties across copper, brass, and white metal. Seven varieties demonstrate production flexibility. The DePuy series spans Rulau Pa-Ph 890-896. Brass tokens featured a distinctive gold-like appearance that elevated them above copper and white metal pieces in the Centennial souvenir hierarchy. Manufactured by the Lingg firm, the dominant producer of merchant tokens during the 1876 Centennial season. Centennial merchant tokens function as miniature time capsules, recording the names, products, and advertising claims of Philadelphia businesses that left few other traces in the historical record. The Centennial International Exhibition of 1876 marked the first time the United States hosted an official World's Fair, using the occasion to display a century of national achievement.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 892B in brass is encountered with moderate frequency in the Centennial token market. Condition census runs from well-worn to occasional choice examples.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 892B; PCGS #914832