(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 930B, Harbach Brothers

Coin Details

Auction Record

$168 MS64 08-24-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This white metal Centennial token (Pa-Ph 930B) was issued by Harbach Brothers, a confectionery and stereopticon dealer of Philadelphia, at 807-809 Filbert Street. Theodore J. Harbach's confectionery, famous for 'Harbach's Original Walnut Candy,' also dealt in magic lanterns and stereopticons. Brothers form suggests at least two Harbach siblings. White metal formed the foundation of the Centennial token market, with copper, brass, and bronze pieces commanding progressively higher values both at issuance and in the modern collector market. Produced by Lingg & Bro., whose Philadelphia workshop turned out Centennial merchant tokens at an industrious pace throughout 1876. 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 930B 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 930B; PCGS #525281