(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-480B-2D, KY

Coin Details

Description

Civil War store card issued by John W. Lee of Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky was a critical border state maintaining Union loyalty while deeply divided. Louisville served as a major supply depot and source of merchant tokens. The 18 cataloged varieties for John W. Lee indicate a notable level of token production. Struck in copper-nickel, this die combination (Fuld 480B-2D) is somewhat scarce. Although undated, this token was produced during the 1862-1864 period when federal coins disappeared from commerce. Die sinkers produced these tokens on hand-operated screw presses, often filling orders for multiple merchants simultaneously. Merchant-issued tokens circulated as substitutes for scarce federal coinage throughout the Northern states between 1862 and 1864. 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 18 cataloged varieties, John W. Lee was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 480B-2D