(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 244A, Lingg & Bro. July 5, 1875

Coin Details

Description

This copper token (Pa-Ph 244A) is a self-advertising piece by Lingg & Bro., the premier token manufacturing firm of the 1876 Centennial International Exposition. Charles Lingg and his brother operated from 36 North 8th Street in Philadelphia, where they cut dies for dozens of merchant advertising tokens distributed at the Centennial grounds in Fairmount Park. The Lingg self-advertising series spans Pa-Ph 220-245 and represents the firm's own promotional efforts alongside their commercial work. 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. Beyond Centennial tokens, Lingg manufactured commercial checks and trade tokens. 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 244A in copper is a self-advertising piece from the Lingg & Bro. series (Pa-Ph 220-245). Collector interest is strong due to the firm's central role in the Centennial token series.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 244A; PCGS #876133