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

Coin Details

Description

Civil War store card from the Fuld 700E-3d 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 copper-nickel, the same alloy used for federal flying eagle and Indian Head cents. This composition is less common than copper for Civil War tokens. 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. Civil War tokens circulated alongside postage currency, fractional currency notes, and encased postage stamps as substitutes for the federal coins that had disappeared from commercial channels. Americans had hoarded federal coins since the suspension of specie payments in December 1861.

Rarity Notes

Copper-nickel strikings are moderately scarce compared to pure copper or brass versions. With 21 cataloged varieties, Frank L. Gay was a moderately active token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 700E-3d