(1881) Copper Token GW-978, Chapter 25, Akron, OH

Coin Details

Description

This copper token cataloged as GW-978 was issued circa 1881 by Chapter 25, Royal Arch Masons, of Akron, Ohio. The Royal Arch is a branch of Freemasonry that emphasizes the completion of the Master Mason degree through additional symbolic rituals. Washington's deep involvement with Freemasonry — and his status as the most famous American Mason — made his portrait a natural choice for Masonic chapter tokens and medals. Chapter 25 in Akron produced these tokens bearing Washington's image as membership tokens, meeting admission pieces, or commemorative items for chapter events. The copper composition was practical for tokens that would be handled regularly at lodge meetings. Masonic chapter tokens are collected within both the Washington medal series and the broader field of Masonic numismatics, documenting the organizational life of American fraternal societies in the Gilded Age.

Rarity Notes

GW-978, copper. Akron Chapter 25 Royal Arch Masons token. Limited to lodge membership distribution. Scarce.

Cross References

PCGS #657881; GW-978; Chapter 25 Akron OH, copper