(1876) White Metal Token Ny-Ny 736A, Great Union Pacific Tea Co.

Coin Details

Description

Issued by Great Union Pacific Tea Co. during the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition, this white metal token (Ny-Ny 736A) advertises a tea merchant and grocery chain operating from New York City, at 77-81 Courtlandt Street. One of the largest tea distributors in the 1870s United States, using Centennial tokens as advertising premiums. Great Union Pacific Tea predated A&P but operated on a similar wholesale-to-retail model. Multiple varieties suggest tiered distribution with premium brass and common white metal. White metal offered the lowest production cost per piece, making it the default choice for merchants who prioritized wide distribution over the visual appeal of costlier metals. Manufactured by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, the leading token manufacturer serving merchants during the Centennial year.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Ny-Ny 736A, this white metal variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

Ny-Ny 736A; PCGS #669782