(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 810A, American Life Insurance Co.

Coin Details

Description

Struck in copper for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (Pa-Ph 810A) was commissioned by American Life Insurance Co., life insurance company of Philadelphia. One of two insurance companies that issued Centennial tokens, with Pa-Ph 810-811 serving as corporate advertising. Pa-Ph 810-811 served as corporate advertising. 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. Manufactured by the Lingg firm, the dominant producer of merchant tokens during the 1876 Centennial season. As historical artifacts, these tokens record the business names, locations, and trades of Philadelphia merchants during the Centennial year — information often absent from other surviving records.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 810A, this copper variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 810A; PCGS #616552