(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph-120, Harbach's

Coin Details

Description

This white metal token () was issued as a souvenir of the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial International Exposition. This piece circulated among the nearly ten million visitors who attended the Exposition at Fairmount Park from May 10 to November 10, 1876. This white metal piece reflects the standard production choice for Centennial merchant tokens, where the affordable tin-lead alloy enabled wide distribution to Exposition visitors. The Lingg brothers ran the most productive die-sinking shop in Centennial-era Philadelphia, cutting custom advertising dies for merchants across multiple trades. As both advertising and souvenir, these tokens gave merchants a marketing vehicle that visitors were motivated to keep rather than discard, ensuring the promotional message endured. 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

in white metal is a collectible Centennial token. Availability depends on the specific die combination and metal composition.

Cross References

; PCGS #786110