1864 Antique US Civil War Token CWT "Union Forever" Patriotic Coin
SKU# C288099

We are pleased to offer this great 1864 Antique US Civil War Token CWT "Union Forever" Patriotic Coin. Due to the various crude dies used during this time period it is difficult to accurately judge the condition. Please be sure to view the photos and examine the characteristics of the token to determine the condition as you see it. BRIEF CIVIL WAR TOKEN HISTORY
In Cincinnati Ohio, fall of 1862, was the first appearance of a Civil War token. These privately minted tokens were produced in two basic types. "Patriotic tokens" which were redeemable for cash and did not contain a sponsor or store name. "Store Cards" were struck with the name of the establishment in which the token could be redeemed. Their appealing size and weight along with great detailing, made these tokens interesting items to barter with. During the spring of 1863, Gustavus Lindenmueller introduced CWT's to the state of New York. As the count arose to over 25 million in circulation, these little pieces fulfilled the needs of tradesmen across the Middle Western as well as Eastern states. Eventually Federal authorities put an end to these tokens as they were made illegal after Congress passed a law on April 22, 1864. An additional law passed that June which forbade any and all private coinage.Civil War tokens are an important part of history and do not receive the recognition they deserve. The fascinating era they were produced in, their stunning detail and interesting characteristics make them the perfect collector's item. Designers of these tokens kept patriotism in mind, and are seen by some as a form of historical art. Much more eye appealing than your average type coin and considerably small, future US minted coins almost replicated these tokens in weight and diameter. Civil War tokens are a significant part of a crucial era and should be admired and appreciated. Their affordability is beneficial to anyone with an interest in collecting.

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