(1876) Copper Token NY-NY 95, Globe Fire Ins. Co.

Coin Details

Auction Record

$216 MS65RD 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This copper Centennial token (NY-NY 95) was issued by Globe Fire Ins. Co., a fire insurance company of Philadelphia. The Globe Fire Insurance Company, issuing Centennial advertising tokens. Fire insurance companies were prominent Centennial participants, as the industry had grown significantly since the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Fire insurance prominent after Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Copper tokens were a popular mid-range choice for Centennial souvenirs, offering durability and an attractive reddish tone that distinguished them from the more common white metal issues. Centennial merchant tokens overwhelmingly bear the workmanship of the Lingg firm, whose die-sinking expertise made them the default manufacturer for Philadelphia businesses. The six months of the Centennial brought close to ten million visitors through the Fairmount Park gates, each a potential customer for the merchants and vendors surrounding the Exposition grounds.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as NY-NY 95, this copper variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

NY-NY 95; PCGS #907016