(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 810, American Life Insurance Co.

Coin Details

Description

Struck in white metal for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (Pa-Ph 810) was commissioned by American Life Insurance Co., life insurance company of Philadelphia. One of two insurance companies that issued Centennial tokens, with Pa-Ph 810-811 serving as corporate advertising. Pa-Ph 810-811 served as corporate advertising. White metal offered the lowest production cost per piece, making it the default choice for merchants who prioritized wide distribution over the visual appeal of costlier metals. Manufactured by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, the firm that produced more Centennial merchant advertising tokens than all other manufacturers combined. The Centennial drew nearly ten million visitors to Philadelphia between May and November 1876, a figure that transformed the city's economy and created a booming market for portable souvenirs.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 810, this white metal variety has moderate availability among Centennial token collectors. Well-struck examples with full details are preferred by specialists.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 810; PCGS #525271