(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-310A-3D, OH

Coin Details

Description

E.L. Lemert, based in Frazeyburg, Ohio, produced this token as a cent substitute during the wartime coin shortage. Ohio produced more varieties of Civil War store cards than any other state, driven by Cincinnati's role as the largest inland city and a Union Army supply hub. E.L. Lemert issued 5 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. This copper-nickel striking (Fuld 310A-3D) is somewhat scarce among the known varieties. This undated piece entered commerce during the 1862-1864 period when millions of private tokens replaced vanished federal coinage. 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. 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 5 cataloged varieties, E.L. Lemert was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 310A-3D