(No Date) Civil War Store Card F-920D-3e, WI

Coin Details

Description

This Civil War token was issued by T. Dervin, operating in Watertown, Wisconsin. Wisconsin was a growing frontier state with Milwaukee as its largest commercial center, and its merchants issued tokens as practical solutions to the coin shortage. The 12 cataloged varieties for T. Dervin indicate a notable level of token production. The white metal composition of this variety (Fuld 920D-3e) is somewhat scarce for this merchant. 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. Private tokens entered circulation after the suspension of specie payments in late 1861 drained small change from commerce. White metal strikings are less common than copper or brass and show more wear due to the soft alloy.

Rarity Notes

White metal (tin alloy) strikings are less common than copper or brass versions and tend to show more wear due to the softness of the alloy. With 12 cataloged varieties, T. Dervin was a notable token issuer.

Cross References

Fuld 920D-3e