(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 480, A.J. Weidener

Coin Details

Description

This white metal Centennial token (Pa-Ph 480) was issued by A.J. Weidener, a general merchant of Philadelphia. A Philadelphia merchant of German-American heritage, with the Weidener/Widener surname common in the community. Weidener/Widener surname common among German-American community. White metal, the composition in which the greatest number of Centennial tokens were produced and survive today. The minimal cost per white metal token enabled a distribution model closer to modern business cards than to commemorative medals. Lingg & Bro. produced these dies from their Philadelphia shop, where they maintained an inventory of standard reverses that could be paired with custom merchant obverses. The Centennial Exposition of 1876 brought the World's Fair tradition to American shores for the first time, transforming Philadelphia into an international showcase for the centennial of independence.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 480 in white metal is encountered with moderate frequency in the Centennial token market. Condition census runs from well-worn to occasional choice examples.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 480; PCGS #600220