(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-225AC-5D, MI

Coin Details

Description

This Civil War token was issued by L.S. Freeman, operating in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit was Michigan's largest city and a major manufacturing center, producing stoves, railroad equipment, and industrial goods for the Northern war effort. L.S. Freeman issued 9 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. This copper-nickel striking (Fuld 225AC-5D) is somewhat scarce among the known varieties. No date appears on this token, consistent with the rapid production practices of the 1862-1864 Civil War token boom. Die sinkers offered merchants a choice of metals, with copper being cheapest and most common, while silver and gold were struck for collectors. The token era ended when Congress authorized new federal small-denomination currency and criminalized private token production in 1864. 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 9 cataloged varieties, L.S. Freeman was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 225AC-5D