(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-770A-4D, OH

Coin Details

Description

Civil War store card issued by B.L. Crew of Richmond, Ohio. Ohio's extensive commercial networks across dozens of cities generated an unparalleled body of merchant token issues during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. B.L. Crew issued 6 die varieties, more than most Civil War merchants. This copper-nickel striking (Fuld 770A-4D) is somewhat scarce among the known varieties. Most Civil War store cards carry no date; this token was struck during the 1862-1864 coin shortage era. The token trade was competitive, with die sinkers in New York, Cincinnati, and other cities vying for merchant orders across the region. The hoarding of federal coinage created an acute shortage of small change, prompting thousands of merchants to issue tokens as practical substitutes. 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 6 cataloged varieties, B.L. Crew was a minor token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 770A-4D