Artist/Maker L. Roloff

Civil War token

1863

Place madeUnited States, North America

Copper

Overall: 3/4 in. ( 1.9 cm )

INV.13855.3b

During the Civil War, there were no metallic coins of any denomination in circulation. Tradesmen were thus forced to issue a medium that would save commerce. Many of these tokens depicted patriotic subjects. The irresponsible nature of these tokens forced Congress to pass an act in 1864, forbidding private individuals to issue any form of money.

DescriptionCopper Civil War token; depiction of shield with stars and stripes on obverse; obverse "L. ROLOFF / E PLURIBUS UNUM / 18 / 63"; reverse: "STAUDINGER'S / 116 / BROADWAY, N.Y."

ClassificationsCOINS & TOKENS