(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 243A, Lingg & Bro. July 5, 1875

Coin Details

Description

Struck in copper, this token (Pa-Ph 243A) was issued by Lingg & Bro. to advertise their own die sinking and token manufacturing services during the 1876 Centennial. Based at 36 North 8th Street in Philadelphia, the Lingg brothers were the principal suppliers of souvenir advertising tokens to merchants exhibiting at the Centennial Exposition. The Lingg self-advertising series spans Pa-Ph 220-245 and represents the firm's own promotional efforts alongside their commercial work. Copper was a favored composition for merchants willing to invest more than the minimum white metal cost, producing tokens with a warmer color and greater durability. The July 5, 1875 dated tokens mark the earliest known Centennial souvenir issues. The Centennial drew nearly ten million visitors to Philadelphia between May and November 1876, a figure that transformed the city's economy and created a booming market for portable souvenirs.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 243A, this copper Lingg self-promotional token is moderately available. The Lingg advertising series has a dedicated following among Centennial token specialists.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 243A; PCGS #525245