(1876) White Metal Token Pa Ph-226, Lingg & Bro.

Coin Details

Description

Struck in white metal, this token (Pa Ph-226) was issued by Lingg & Bro. to advertise their own die sinking and token manufacturing services during the 1876 Centennial. Based at 36 North 8th Street in Philadelphia, the Lingg brothers were the principal suppliers of souvenir advertising tokens to merchants exhibiting at the Centennial Exposition. Unlike the merchant commissions that comprise most of their output, this token promotes the Lingg firm itself. The white metal composition places this piece among the most accessible category of Centennial tokens for modern collectors. White metal's affordability removed the cost barrier to generous distribution, and merchants gave tokens to any visitor who entered their establishment. Lingg produced tokens in white metal, copper, brass, and bronze. As the first World's Fair on American soil, the 1876 Centennial served the dual purpose of commemorating national independence and establishing the United States as a global industrial power.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa Ph-226, this white metal Lingg self-promotional token is moderately available. The Lingg advertising series has a dedicated following among Centennial token specialists.

Cross References

; PCGS #615255