Posted 8 years ago
SpiritBear
(813 items)
This is a "First in War, First in Peace" token (quote from George Washington) minted in 1863. On the opposite side, it adds "Union Forever".
These were minted, essentially, as morale pieces for the public. They drew support for the war, which at this point the Union was pretty much losing.
These also are different from the Store Tokens, minted privately to 'replace' dwindling coinage.
This one is in extra-fine condition, just as it should be as it was never meant to circulate.
The federal gov't. just had no money ! Token were issued everywhere in the north to ease the problem. Been trying to study this lately.
No wonder it was Deja Vu: Your first sentence here is nearly identical to your first sentence on my store token:
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/181963-civil-war-token
There is a difference between Patriotic and Store tokens.
Glad you mentioned that as it was one of the shades of grey I was wondering about.
nice item!
Thank you, Chris. :)