(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 256, Muled w/ Pa-Ph 226 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 reverse die showing Memorial Hall, the permanent art gallery structure. 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. Centennial merchant tokens combined advertising with souvenir appeal, creating pocket-sized promotions that visitors retained as mementos long after the Exposition closed.

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 #668064