(c.1850) Copper Token Rulau NY-NY 421, C. Leighton

Coin Details

Description

Copper merchant token issued by C. Leighton of New York City, circa 1850. Leighton operated a commercial establishment in Manhattan during the mid-19th century. The copper composition was a standard choice for merchant advertising tokens of this period, offering durability at low cost. New York's merchant token production peaked during the Civil War era, but pre-war issues like Leighton's represent the continuing tradition of commercial token advertising that dated back to the 1820s. Copper, 22mm. Mid-19th century merchant tokens reflect the growing sophistication of American retail commerce, as entrepreneurs adopted increasingly creative advertising methods. Manhattan's die-sinking community, anchored by firms like the Lovetts and engravers such as John Adams Bolen, made New York the unrivaled center of American token production. The numismatic community has shown deepening interest in early American tokens, driven by appreciation for their dual significance as commercial artifacts and historical records.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Pre-Civil War New York merchant token in copper. C. Leighton's specific business has not been conclusively identified. Mid-century New York merchant tokens are collected as part of the broader tradition of American commercial exonumia.

Cross References

Rulau NY-NY; PCGS #850173