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Inventory:
2 In Stock
- Product ID: 43048
The Civil War Store Card Philadelphia PA 1864 Great Central Fair PA750L-1a AU represents a unique piece of history from the Civil War era, specifically associated with the Great Central Fair held in Philadelphia in 1864. This store card serves as both a token of the fair and a form of currency used during the event, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of commerce and patriotism during the war.
The American Civil War, fought from 1861 to 1865, was a period of intense conflict that deeply affected every aspect of American society, including commerce and industry. Philadelphia, as one of the largest cities in the Union, played a crucial role in supporting the war effort, hosting events like the Great Central Fair to raise funds for the Union Army.
The design of the Civil War Store Card Philadelphia PA 1864 Great Central Fair PA750L-1a AU features imagery and inscriptions associated with the fair itself. The obverse typically depicts symbols of patriotism and unity, such as an eagle or American flag, along with the name of the fair and its location. The reverse side may include additional details about the fair or its organizers.
These store cards were privately minted specifically for use at the Great Central Fair, providing attendees with a tangible souvenir of the event while also serving as a practical form of currency for purchases made on-site. Made from copper or brass, they were smaller and lighter than official U.S. coins, but they were widely accepted by vendors participating in the fair.
The mintage of store cards like the Civil War Store Card Philadelphia PA 1864 Great Central Fair PA750L-1a AU would have been determined by the organizers of the fair based on anticipated attendance and demand for souvenirs. Minting facilities in Philadelphia or nearby cities would have produced these tokens in advance of the event.
Denominated according to the needs of the fair and its vendors, store cards like this one would have been issued in various denominations to accommodate different types of purchases. Attendees could use them to buy food, beverages, souvenirs, and other goods available at the fair.
Condition is an important factor in assessing the value of store cards like the Civil War Store Card Philadelphia PA 1864 Great Central Fair PA750L-1a AU. Graded as AU, or About Uncirculated, this specimen exhibits minimal wear, with traces of mint luster still visible. The coin's details remain sharp and well-defined, enhancing its visual appeal and historical significance.
In conclusion, the Civil War Store Card Philadelphia PA 1864 Great Central Fair PA750L-1a AU provides a fascinating glimpse into the fundraising efforts and patriotic fervor of the Civil War era. Its design, historical significance, and well-preserved condition make it a valuable artifact of this pivotal period in American history.