(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-225MA-3I, MI

Coin Details

Description

Store card of Campbell & Calnon in Detroit, Michigan, struck during the 1862-1864 token era. As Michigan's commercial hub, Detroit generated more Civil War token varieties than any other city in the state, reflecting its diverse merchant community. Campbell & Calnon issued 7 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. The zinc composition of this variety (Fuld 225MA-3I) is scarce for this merchant. 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. Private tokens entered circulation after the suspension of specie payments in late 1861 drained small change from commerce. Zinc strikings are uncommon and prone to corrosion, making preserved examples desirable.

Rarity Notes

Zinc strikings are relatively uncommon and prone to corrosion, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable. With 7 cataloged varieties, Campbell & Calnon was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 225MA-3I