(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-700E-3c, RH

Coin Details

Description

Civil War store card from the Fuld 700E-3c series, attributed to the unidentified issuer "RH." Part of the extensive Fuld 700 "RH" series, one of the largest groups of unattributed Civil War store cards. With over 100 cataloged varieties across multiple die combinations and metals, the volume of production indicates "RH" was a die sinker, distributor, or jobber who supplied tokens in bulk. Struck in nickel, an uncommon composition that is scarcer than copper or brass versions. This undated piece was produced circa 1862-1864 during the wartime coin shortage. Token production peaked in 1863 when the coin shortage was most acute. Americans had hoarded federal coins since the suspension of specie payments in December 1861. Die sinkers produced these tokens on hand-operated screw presses capable of striking several hundred pieces per hour. The largest manufacturers maintained multiple presses to meet wartime demand.

Rarity Notes

Nickel strikings are generally scarcer than copper or brass versions, as nickel was more expensive and harder to strike. With 21 cataloged varieties, Frank L. Gay was a moderately active token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 700E-3c