Discover a rare piece of numismatic history with this 1837 Hard Times Token, Low-154 Mule, expertly minted in copper during a tumultuous period in American history. This token effectively showcases the pairing of two unrelated dies: the obverse mimicking an 1837 U.S. Large Cent, while the reverse features a design from an earlier French Colonies 9 Deniers coin.
Condition-wise, this token is classified with a grade of Poor. It has been heavily circulated and shows extensive wear on both sides, with key design details having worn smooth over time. Despite this wear, the date '1837' remains legible, and some legends can still be partially observed. Its surfaces are characterized by a dark, uneven patina and display numerous small nicks, scratches, and contact marks, which attest to its journey through history.
This token serves as a testament to the social and political climate of the 1830s in America, when these tokens were used as an unofficial currency during financial instability. The unique 'mule' nature of this token adds considerable interest for collectors of exonumia and early American tokens, making it a noteworthy addition to any collection.
Inventory # 16