(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-165GJ-12D, OH

Coin Details

Description

This Civil War token was issued by Commission, operating in Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati was the largest inland city in antebellum America and a critical supply center for the Union Army, driving Ohio to produce more varieties of Civil War store cards than any other state. The 16 cataloged varieties for Commission indicate a notable level of token production. Struck in copper-nickel, this die combination (Fuld 165GJ-12D) is somewhat scarce. Although undated, this token was produced during the 1862-1864 period when federal coins disappeared from commerce. Die sinkers produced these tokens on hand-operated screw presses, often filling orders for multiple merchants simultaneously. The Civil War small change crisis generated the largest private coinage movement in American history, with merchants and die sinkers producing tokens for circulation. Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce, resembling the federal Indian Head cent in both size and color.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 16 cataloged varieties, Commission was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 165GJ-12D