(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 900, Fries, Malseed & Hawkins

Coin Details

Description

Fries, Malseed & Hawkins issued this white metal souvenir token (Pa-Ph 900) as advertising during the 1876 Centennial. The expanded three-partner form of Malseed & Hawkins, with Pa-Ph 900-902 cataloged separately. Three partners pooled resources for Centennial advertising. 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. ran the primary token manufacturing operation for Philadelphia's Centennial merchant community. As the first World's Fair on American soil, the 1876 Centennial served the dual purpose of commemorating national independence and establishing the United States as a global industrial power. Local merchants viewed the Centennial as an unprecedented opportunity to advertise to visitors from every state and dozens of foreign countries, many of whom were visiting Philadelphia for the first time.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 900 in white metal is a collectible Centennial merchant token. The expanded three-partner form of Malseed & Hawkins, with Pa-Ph 900-902 cataloged separately. Most examples survive in VF to EF condition.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 900; PCGS #525279