(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 702, A. Picard

Coin Details

Description

Struck in white metal for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (Pa-Ph 702) was commissioned by A. Picard, general merchant of Philadelphia. A Philadelphia merchant with French surname, adding diversity to the predominantly Germanic names among Centennial token issuers, with four varieties across Pa-Ph 701-702. French surname adds diversity to predominantly Germanic names. Four varieties across Pa-Ph 701-702. Produced in white metal, reflecting the composition that accounts for the majority of surviving Centennial merchant tokens. The low production cost of white metal meant merchants could hand out tokens without concern for unit economics, treating them as disposable advertising. Dies were cut at the Lingg brothers' Philadelphia workshop, where the firm had developed efficient production methods for the high volume of merchant token orders. 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.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 702 in white metal is a collectible Centennial merchant token. A Philadelphia merchant with French surname, adding diversity to the predominantly Germanic names among Centennial token issuers, with four varieties across Pa-Ph 701-702. Most examples survive in VF to EF condition.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 702; PCGS #669766