c.1792 Kentucky Token - Lancaster Lettered Edge

Coin Details

Description

Produced circa 1792 with "LANCASTER" lettered edge, this Kentucky Token (Whitman 8660) belongs to a series referencing the newly admitted state of Kentucky (statehood June 1, 1792). Struck in copper at approximately 9.5 grams with a 29 mm diameter, the obverse depicts a hand holding a scroll inscribed UNANIMITY above a star pattern, while the reverse shows an eagle and shield. The "LANCASTER" edge lettering references either Lancaster, England, or Lancaster, Pennsylvania — both with connections to late-eighteenth-century token production. Kentucky Tokens are attributed to Birmingham's token manufacturing industry, particularly firms like Peter Kempson's. Edge lettering varieties form an important classification criterion, with Lancaster, Birmingham, and plain edge types each representing different production configurations. The series was likely a commercial venture capitalizing on interest in the new state's admission, though the tokens may also have served as practical small change. The Lancaster variety is moderately scarce, distinguished from more common plain edge and other lettered edge variants.

Rarity Notes

Moderately scarce.

Cross References

Whitman 8660