(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-225R-3D, MI

Coin Details

Description

Store card of A.W. Copeland's in Detroit, Michigan, struck during the 1862-1864 token era. Detroit was Michigan's largest city and a major manufacturing center, producing stoves, railroad equipment, and industrial goods for the Northern war effort. A.W. Copeland's issued 8 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. This copper-nickel striking (Fuld 225R-3D) is somewhat scarce among the known varieties. This undated token was struck circa 1862-1864 during the wartime coin shortage. 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 8 cataloged varieties, A.W. Copeland's was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 225R-3D