(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-40A-2E, MI

Coin Details

Description

Philip Bach, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, produced this token as a cent substitute during the wartime coin shortage. Michigan was a significant industrial state during the Civil War, with Detroit emerging as a major manufacturing center and merchants across the state producing tokens. The 13 cataloged varieties for Philip Bach indicate a notable level of token production. Struck in white metal, this die combination (Fuld 40A-2E) is somewhat scarce. 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. Store cards circulated as emergency currency after wartime hoarding removed federal coins from commercial channels. White metal strikings are less common than copper or brass and show more wear due to the soft alloy.

Rarity Notes

White metal (tin alloy) strikings are less common than copper or brass versions and tend to show more wear due to the softness of the alloy. With 13 cataloged varieties, Philip Bach was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 40A-2E