(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 246, Lingg & Bro.

Coin Details

Description

This white metal token (Pa-Ph 246) is a self-advertising piece by Lingg & Bro., the premier token manufacturing firm of the 1876 Centennial International Exposition. Charles Lingg and his brother operated from 36 North 8th Street in Philadelphia, where they cut dies for dozens of merchant advertising tokens distributed at the Centennial grounds in Fairmount Park. Unlike the merchant commissions that comprise most of their output, this token promotes the Lingg firm itself. Within the hierarchy of Centennial tokens, white metal occupied the entry level — affordable enough for merchants to distribute freely while still offering collectors a tangible souvenir. Beyond Centennial tokens, Lingg manufactured commercial checks and trade tokens. 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.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 246 in white metal is a self-advertising piece from the Lingg & Bro. series (Pa-Ph 220-245). Collector interest is strong due to the firm's central role in the Centennial token series.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 246; PCGS #600237