(1942) Token Pattern - RB-42-70-T-1

Coin Details

Description

Reed-Brenner 42-70-T-1 is the first in a series of experimental token patterns from the 1942 wartime testing program. The "T" designation in the Reed-Brenner system distinguishes these as token patterns rather than cent patterns, reflecting the Mint's exploration of an alternative approach to the copper shortage: instead of simply changing the cent's composition, the Mint considered whether wartime tokens might serve as cent substitutes. This concept echoed historical precedent — during the Civil War, private merchants had issued copper and bronze tokens that circulated as cent substitutes when official coins were hoarded. The 1942 token experiments tested whether a government-issued token program could provide a practical interim solution while copper remained unavailable for coinage. The token approach was ultimately rejected in favor of the zinc-coated steel cent, but these experimental pieces document one of the most creative solutions considered during the wartime emergency.

Rarity Notes

R-7 to R-8. Extremely rare. The token experiments were a secondary line of investigation and produced fewer specimens than the cent composition tests.

Cross References

Reed-Brenner RB-42-70-T-1; 1942 wartime token experiment; cf. Civil War tokens (1861-1864)