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

Coin Details

Description

Store card of Godfrey Dean & Co 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. The 10 cataloged varieties for Godfrey Dean & Co indicate a notable level of token production. Struck in zinc, this die combination (Fuld 225U-3I) is scarce. Civil War tokens rarely bear dates. This piece was struck during the 1862-1864 coin shortage, when merchants needed emergency small change. The dies for merchant tokens were usually cut by professional engravers who could produce a complete set in a matter of days. 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 10 cataloged varieties, Godfrey Dean & Co was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 225U-3I