(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 789, John E. Vallee

Coin Details

Description

This white metal Centennial token (Pa-Ph 789) was issued by John E. Vallee, a confectioner and baker of Philadelphia. A Philadelphia confectioner who issued seven Centennial token varieties, placing him among the most prolific individual issuers. Seven-variety series places Vallee among the top tier of Centennial token issuers. Multiple die combinations reflect the flexibility of Lingg production system. The white metal composition made this the most economical version of this merchant's Centennial token. White metal tokens survive in the largest numbers because they were produced and distributed in enormous quantities. Lingg & Bro. produced tokens for more Centennial merchants than any other die-sinking firm in the region. The six months of the Centennial brought close to ten million visitors through the Fairmount Park gates, each a potential customer for the merchants and vendors surrounding the Exposition grounds.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 789 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 789; PCGS #903142