(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 258A, Lingg & Bro.

Coin Details

Description

Struck in copper, this token (Pa-Ph 258A) 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. Unlike the merchant commissions that comprise most of their output, this token promotes the Lingg firm itself. 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. Approximately ten million people visited the Centennial grounds in Fairmount Park during its six-month run, generating enormous demand for affordable keepsakes that merchants were eager to supply.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 258A, 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 258A; PCGS #903135