(1876) Bronze Token Pa-Ph 256, Muled w/ Pa-Ph 225 Obv

Coin Details

Description

Struck in bronze, this die mule (Pa-Ph 256) pairs the Lingg & Co. alternate trade name die used on later token issues with the Exposition building obverse die depicting the Main Exhibition Building at the Centennial grounds in Fairmount Park. These mule combinations were produced by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, who controlled the Centennial token dies and created these cross-die pairings as collector novelties. Die mules occupy a specialized niche within the Centennial series, prized by collectors for their unusual die combinations and relative scarcity. Bronze tokens combined durability with an attractive golden-brown patina that developed over time, making them a popular mid-range choice for Centennial souvenirs. As both advertising and souvenir, these tokens gave merchants a marketing vehicle that visitors were motivated to keep rather than discard, ensuring the promotional message endured.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 256 in bronze is a scarce die mule. Mule combinations were produced in smaller quantities than standard merchant tokens, making them prized by advanced Centennial token collectors.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 256; PCGS #668062