(1876) Copper Token Pa-Ph 998A, Dietrich Knoppel

Coin Details

Description

This copper token (Pa-Ph 998A) was issued as a souvenir of the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial International Exposition. Issued by Dietrich Knoppel, this piece circulated among the nearly ten million visitors who attended the Exposition at Fairmount Park from May 10 to November 10, 1876. The copper composition provides a distinctive warm reddish color that develops an attractive brown patina over time. Copper Centennial tokens survive in moderate quantities. Lingg & Bro. ran the primary token manufacturing operation for Philadelphia's Centennial merchant community. At 285 acres, the Centennial was the largest organized event in American history to that date, with exhibition halls housing everything from massive steam engines to delicate Japanese ceramics. 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

Pa-Ph 998A in copper is a collectible Centennial token. Availability depends on the specific die combination and metal composition.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 998A; PCGS #600231