(1876) Copper Token NY-NY 728, Frederick's Pharmacy

Coin Details

Auction Record

$192 MS65BN 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

Struck in copper for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (NY-NY 728) was commissioned by Frederick's Pharmacy, pharmacy and apothecary of Philadelphia. Frederick's Pharmacy issued the most extensive single-merchant Centennial token series, with seven die and metal combinations. Philadelphia pharmacies served dual roles as dispensaries and general stores. Multiple production batches suggest earlier varieties proved effective. Struck in copper, a mid-tier composition for Centennial tokens. Copper pieces cost more than white metal but less than brass, offering a balance of durability and visual appeal. Lingg & Bro. produced these dies from their Philadelphia shop, where they maintained an inventory of standard reverses that could be paired with custom merchant obverses. 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

NY-NY 728 in copper is a collectible Centennial merchant token. Frederick's Pharmacy issued the most extensive single-merchant Centennial token series, with seven die and metal combinations. Most examples survive in VF to EF condition.

Cross References

NY-NY 728; PCGS #907017