(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 256, Mule w/ Pa-Ph 225 Obv

Coin Details

Description

This copper die mule (Pa-Ph 256) combines two unrelated Centennial token dies: the Lingg & Co. alternate trade name die used on later token issues paired with the Exposition building obverse die depicting the Main Exhibition Building at the Centennial grounds in Fairmount Park. These mule combinations were produced by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, who controlled the Centennial token dies and created these cross-die pairings as collector novelties. As an intentional cross-die pairing, this mule is inherently scarcer than the standard merchant tokens that used each die individually. 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. The Lingg establishment combined die-sinking craft with efficient production methods, enabling merchants to receive customized tokens in quantities ranging from hundreds to thousands of pieces.

Rarity Notes

This mule variety (Pa-Ph 256) in copper is uncommon. Die mules represent a specialized collecting area within the broader Centennial token series.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 256; PCGS #694499