(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 278, D.M. Murphy

Coin Details

Description

D.M. Murphy issued this white metal souvenir token (Pa-Ph 278) as advertising during the 1876 Centennial. An Irish-American Philadelphia merchant with three Centennial token varieties. White metal Murphy tokens most frequently encountered. Struck in the tin-lead alloy that constitutes the largest share of surviving Centennial merchant tokens. The minimal cost per white metal token enabled a distribution model closer to modern business cards than to commemorative medals. The die work originated from the Lingg establishment in central Philadelphia, which operated at peak capacity throughout the Centennial year to meet merchant demand. Approximately ten million people visited the Centennial grounds in Fairmount Park during its six-month run, generating enormous demand for affordable keepsakes that merchants were eager to supply. These tokens functioned simultaneously as merchant advertising and personal keepsakes, allowing Exposition visitors to carry home a tangible reminder of both their visit and the issuing business.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 278 in white metal is a collectible Centennial merchant token. An Irish-American Philadelphia merchant with three Centennial token varieties. Most examples survive in VF to EF condition.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 278; PCGS #525250