(1876) Copper Token NY-NY 732A, Great Union Pacific Tea Co.

Coin Details

Description

Struck in copper for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (NY-NY 732A) was commissioned by Great Union Pacific Tea Co., tea merchant and grocery chain of New York City, at 77-81 Courtlandt Street. One of the largest tea distributors in the 1870s United States, using Centennial tokens as advertising premiums. Centennial tokens doubled as advertising for their mail-order tea business. Great Union Pacific Tea predated A&P but operated on a similar wholesale-to-retail model. 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. Manufactured by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, the firm that produced more Centennial merchant advertising tokens than all other manufacturers combined. The Centennial Exposition of 1876 brought the World's Fair tradition to American shores for the first time, transforming Philadelphia into an international showcase for the centennial of independence.

Rarity Notes

NY-NY 732A in copper is encountered with moderate frequency in the Centennial token market. Condition census runs from well-worn to occasional choice examples.

Cross References

NY-NY 732A; PCGS #525312