-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 43026
Checkout
The Civil War Store Card New York City NY 1863 Thomas White Butcher NY630CH-1a RB UNC offers a fascinating glimpse into the economic landscape of New York City during the tumultuous years of the American Civil War. Issued amidst the scarcity of small denomination coins, this store card played a crucial role in facilitating commerce and trade in the city.
The American Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865, was a period of intense political and social upheaval in the United States. The conflict between the Northern Union states and the Southern Confederate states had significant economic repercussions, disrupting trade routes and impacting businesses across the nation.
The design of the Thomas White Butcher store card typically features a central motif surrounded by text identifying the business and its location. The obverse may include the name of the merchant, Thomas White Butcher, along with imagery or symbols associated with the business, such as cuts of meat or butcher's tools. The reverse side may contain additional information, such as the token's denomination or a patriotic slogan.
Privately minted by businesses like Thomas White Butcher's, store cards were issued to address the shortage of small denomination coins caused by the war. Made of copper or brass, these tokens were smaller in size than official U.S. coins and were not officially sanctioned by the government. However, they were widely accepted as currency by local merchants and consumers.
The mintage of store cards like the Thomas White Butcher token varied depending on the needs of individual businesses and the availability of materials and minting facilities. Some businesses issued only a limited number of tokens, while others produced larger quantities to meet the demands of their customers.
Denominated according to the needs of the issuing business, store cards like the Thomas White Butcher token were used as currency in everyday transactions, much like official coins. The denomination of these tokens typically corresponded to the value of goods or services offered by the merchant.
Condition is an essential factor in determining the value of store cards like the Thomas White Butcher token. Graded as UNC, or Uncirculated, this particular specimen exhibits no signs of wear and retains its original mint luster. With sharp details and no visible flaws, it stands as a pristine example of Civil War-era numismatic artistry.
In conclusion, the Civil War Store Card New York City NY 1863 Thomas White Butcher NY630CH-1a RB UNC offers valuable insights into the economic challenges faced by businesses and consumers during the Civil War era. Its design and historical significance provide a fascinating window into the bustling commercial activity of New York City during this pivotal period in American history.