(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 892A, Thomas DePuy

Coin Details

Description

Struck in copper for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (Pa-Ph 892A) was commissioned by Thomas DePuy, general merchandise dealer of Philadelphia. A Philadelphia merchant who commissioned seven varieties across copper, brass, and white metal. The DePuy series spans Rulau Pa-Ph 890-896. Brass varieties survive in smaller numbers. 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. Dies were cut at the Lingg brothers' Philadelphia workshop, where the firm had developed efficient production methods for the high volume of merchant token orders. Centennial merchant tokens combined advertising with souvenir appeal, creating pocket-sized promotions that visitors retained as mementos long after the Exposition closed.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 892A, this copper variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 892A; PCGS #600243