(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-805A-1I, OH

Coin Details

Description

Cummins & Anderson of Shelby issued this token as emergency currency during the Civil War coin shortage. Ohio's extensive commercial networks across dozens of cities generated an unparalleled body of merchant token issues during the 1862-1864 coin shortage. The 14 cataloged varieties for Cummins & Anderson indicate a notable level of token production. Struck in zinc, this die combination (Fuld 805A-1I) is scarce. This undated piece entered commerce during the 1862-1864 period when millions of private tokens replaced vanished federal coinage. The dies for merchant tokens were usually cut by professional engravers who could produce a complete set in a matter of days. Store cards circulated as emergency currency after wartime hoarding removed federal coins from commercial channels. Zinc strikings are uncommon and prone to corrosion, making preserved examples desirable.

Rarity Notes

Zinc strikings are relatively uncommon and prone to corrosion, making well-preserved examples particularly desirable. With 14 cataloged varieties, Cummins & Anderson was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 805A-1I