(c.1850) Brass Token Rulau NY-NY 1051, E.L. Percy

Coin Details

Description

Brass merchant token issued by E.L. Percy of New York City, circa 1850. Percy operated a business in Manhattan during the pre-Civil War period when the city was experiencing rapid commercial growth. The NY-NY prefix denotes a New York City attribution. Mid-century New York merchant tokens document the commercial culture of America's largest city during the era of westward expansion and the California Gold Rush. These tokens served as advertising pieces and sometimes as informal store credits in an economy where small change was periodically scarce. Brass, 22mm. Mid-19th century merchant tokens reflect the growing sophistication of American retail commerce, as entrepreneurs adopted increasingly creative advertising methods. The presence of premier die sinkers in New York — including multiple generations of the Lovett family — established the city as the primary source for high-quality American merchant tokens.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Pre-Civil War New York merchant token from the mid-19th century. E.L. Percy's specific trade has not been conclusively identified, presenting an opportunity for numismatic research. New York merchant tokens from the 1850s are less abundant than those from the Hard Times or Civil War eras.

Cross References

Rulau NY-NY; PCGS #850175