(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 494A, Whitman & Son

Coin Details

Auction Record

$264 MS65RB 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

Whitman & Son issued this copper souvenir token (Pa-Ph 494A) as advertising during the 1876 Centennial. Philadelphia merchants associated with confectionery and chocolate, with five varieties spanning Pa-Ph 488-494. Whitman name later synonymous with coin collecting. White metal tokens most commonly encountered. 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. Manufactured by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, the firm that produced more Centennial merchant advertising tokens than all other manufacturers combined. The Centennial transformed Philadelphia's retail landscape in 1876, bringing foot traffic and revenue to merchants who had never experienced anything approaching the volume of business the Exposition generated. Token varieties ranged from inexpensive white metal pieces distributed freely to visitors, through mid-range copper and brass issues, to rare silver presentation pieces for collectors.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 494A, this copper variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 494A; PCGS #903137