(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 860, Cassidy's

Coin Details

Auction Record

$138 MS64 06-17-2024 eBay

Description

Issued by Cassidy's during the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition, this white metal token (Pa-Ph 860) advertises a restaurant or tavern operating from Philadelphia. A Philadelphia dining establishment with four varieties in Pa-Ph 860-869. Daily visitor traffic boosted local establishments. White metal issues most common survivors. Merchants on tighter budgets gravitated to white metal for its combination of acceptable appearance and significantly lower per-unit cost compared to copper or brass alternatives. Manufactured by Lingg & Bro. of Philadelphia, the primary source for custom merchant tokens during the 1876 Centennial celebrations. As both advertising and souvenir, these tokens gave merchants a marketing vehicle that visitors were motivated to keep rather than discard, ensuring the promotional message endured.

Rarity Notes

Cataloged as Pa-Ph 860, 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 860; PCGS #525275