(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 245A, Lingg & Bro.

Coin Details

Description

This copper token (Pa-Ph 245A) is a self-advertising piece by Lingg & Bro., the premier token manufacturing firm of the 1876 Centennial International Exposition. Operating from their Philadelphia shop at 36 North 8th Street, the firm produced the largest body of Centennial merchant advertising tokens, cutting dies for nearly every participating merchant. The Lingg self-advertising series spans Pa-Ph 220-245 and represents the firm's own promotional efforts alongside their commercial work. 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. Beyond Centennial tokens, Lingg manufactured commercial checks and trade tokens. The merchant tokens from the 1876 Centennial preserve a snapshot of Philadelphia's commercial life, documenting businesses ranging from restaurants and hotels to dry goods stores and hardware dealers.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 245A 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 245A; PCGS #876149