(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-425A-9C, AL

Coin Details

Description

White & Swann of Huntsville issued this token as emergency currency during the Civil War coin shortage. Alabama was a Confederate state, making merchant-issued tokens from Alabama particularly unusual. Most date to early in the war or from areas under Union control. White & Swann produced 29 cataloged die varieties, reflecting a substantial token operation. This nickel striking (Fuld 425A-9C) is scarce among the known varieties. No date appears on this token, consistent with the rapid production practices of the 1862-1864 Civil War token boom. 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. Nickel tokens were produced in smaller quantities than the standard copper issues.

Rarity Notes

Nickel strikings are generally scarcer than copper or brass versions, as nickel was more expensive and harder to strike. With 29 cataloged varieties, White & Swann was a moderately active token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 425A-9C