(1876) White Metal Token Pa-Ph 935, Theo. J. Harbach

Coin Details

Auction Record

$94 11-05-2023 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

Struck in white metal for the 1876 Centennial International Exposition, this token (Pa-Ph 935) was commissioned by Theo. J. Harbach, 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. Personal name identifies the specific proprietor. This white metal striking represents the most frequently seen composition among Centennial merchant tokens. The low production cost of white metal meant merchants could hand out tokens without concern for unit economics, treating them as disposable advertising. Lingg & Bro. produced these dies from their Philadelphia shop, where they maintained an inventory of standard reverses that could be paired with custom merchant obverses. 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 935 in white metal is a collectible Centennial merchant token. Theodore J. Harbach's confectionery, famous for 'Harbach's Original Walnut Candy,' also dealt in magic lanterns and stereopticons. Most examples survive in VF to EF condition.

Cross References

Pa-Ph 935; PCGS #525282