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

Coin Details

Description

L.J. Staples, based in Detroit, Michigan, produced this token as a cent substitute during the wartime coin shortage. Detroit's growing industrial economy made it a significant source of Civil War tokens, with merchants across the city issuing pieces to maintain commerce. The 10 cataloged varieties for L.J. Staples indicate a notable level of token production. Struck in copper-nickel, this die combination (Fuld 225BZ-5D) is somewhat scarce. Undated Civil War tokens like this one circulated alongside dated issues during the 1862-1864 period. Professional die sinkers like John Stanton, Benjamin True, and William Bridgens supplied dies to merchants across the Northern states. Federal coinage vanished from circulation after 1861 as citizens hoarded silver and copper for their metal value, leaving merchants to fill the void with tokens. 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 10 cataloged varieties, L.J. Staples was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 225BZ-5D