(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 902, Fries, Malseed & Hawkins

Coin Details

Description

Struck in white metal for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (Pa-Ph 902) was commissioned by Fries, Malseed & Hawkins, dry goods merchants of Philadelphia. The expanded three-partner form of Malseed & Hawkins, with Pa-Ph 900-902 cataloged separately. Three partners pooled resources for Centennial advertising. 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 leading token manufacturer serving merchants during the Centennial year. The Exposition's 285 acres in Fairmount Park contained five main buildings and scores of smaller pavilions where 37 nations displayed their cultural and industrial achievements.

Rarity Notes

Pa-Ph 902 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 902; PCGS #816825