(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-700E-1j, RH

Coin Details

Description

Civil War store card from the Fuld 700E-1j series, attributed to the unidentified issuer "RH." The Fuld 700 "RH" series represents one of the most extensive unidentified issuer groups in the Civil War store card catalog. The initials "RH" appear on tokens struck in numerous die combinations and metals, suggesting commercial-scale production during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. Struck in German silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy containing no actual silver), a scarce composition that produces a bright silvery appearance. The absence of a date is common for Civil War tokens, which were produced during the 1862-1864 coin shortage era. The end of the token era came in 1864 when Congress authorized new small-denomination currency and criminalized private token production. Surviving specimens are tangible artifacts of wartime monetary history.

Rarity Notes

German silver (a copper-nickel-zinc alloy) strikings are less common than copper or brass versions and are sought after for their distinctive silvery appearance. With 21 cataloged varieties, Frank L. Gay was a moderately active token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 700E-1j