(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-695A-6D, OH

Coin Details

Description

This Civil War token was issued by J.F. Seas, operating in Orville, Ohio. Ohio's extensive commercial networks across dozens of cities generated an unparalleled body of merchant token issues during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. J.F. Seas issued 7 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. The copper-nickel composition of this variety (Fuld 695A-6D) is somewhat scarce for this merchant. 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. Federal coinage vanished from circulation after 1861 as citizens hoarded silver and copper for their metal value, leaving merchants to fill the void with tokens. 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 7 cataloged varieties, J.F. Seas was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 695A-6D