(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 971E, Kelly's

Coin Details

Description

Kelly's issued this copper souvenir token (Pa-Ph 971E) as advertising during the 1876 Centennial. A Philadelphia restaurant or provisions establishment near the Exposition grounds that issued six token varieties. Pa-Ph 970-975 places these in the later merchant series. Six-variety series suggests thriving business from enormous foot traffic. 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 die-sinking firm that dominated merchant token production throughout the Centennial season. 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 971E, this copper variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 971E; PCGS #669778