(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 489, Whitman & Son

Coin Details

Description

Struck in white metal for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (Pa-Ph 489) was commissioned by Whitman & Son, confectioners and merchants of Philadelphia. Philadelphia merchants associated with confectionery and chocolate, with five varieties spanning Pa-Ph 488-494. White metal tokens most commonly encountered. Pa-Ph 488-494 encompasses brass and white metal. The tin-lead white metal composition was selected for its economy of production, enabling merchants to afford the large quantities necessary for effective distribution at the crowded Exposition. The Lingg brothers ran the most productive die-sinking shop in Centennial-era Philadelphia, cutting custom advertising dies for merchants across multiple trades. Businesses along the routes between downtown Philadelphia and Fairmount Park saw extraordinary traffic during the Centennial months, as millions of visitors passed through on their way to the Exposition.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 489 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 489; PCGS #913884