(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-690B-2e, TN

Coin Details

Description

This Civil War token was issued by Harris & Pearl, operating in Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville fell to Union forces in February 1862 and served as a critical supply base for the remainder of the war. Merchant tokens from Nashville date to the Union occupation period. Harris & Pearl issued 7 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. Struck in white metal, this die combination (Fuld 690B-2e) 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. The Civil War small change crisis generated the largest private coinage movement in American history, with merchants and die sinkers producing tokens for circulation. 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 7 cataloged varieties, Harris & Pearl was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 690B-2e