(1876) White Metal Token Ny-Ny 776B, William R. Jenkins

Coin Details

Description

William R. Jenkins issued this white metal souvenir token (Ny-Ny 776B) as advertising during the 1876 Centennial. William R. Jenkins, a NYC bookseller specializing in French-language publications, with two advertising token varieties. Two metals allowed common and premium versions. Struck in the tin-lead alloy that constitutes the largest share of surviving Centennial merchant tokens. White metal's affordability removed the cost barrier to generous distribution, and merchants gave tokens to any visitor who entered their establishment. The Lingg firm's North 8th Street workshop handled orders from dozens of Philadelphia merchants, cutting individual obverse dies while reusing standard reverse designs. 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. Memorial Hall, the Exposition's permanent art gallery, was the only major building designed to survive the fair and remains standing in Fairmount Park as a lasting architectural legacy of the Centennial.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Ny-Ny 776B, 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 776B; PCGS #669784