Does anyone know what exactly Civil War tokens were used for or were there about as many reasons as there are tokens? Also, what is a good guide on Civil War tokens? Thanks
Civil War tokens have 3 good reasons to exist. First, adverstising for the issuer. Second, there was a serious shortage of small change during the CW as many folks hoarded hard money in case they had to move quickly. These tokens were an attempt to fill the void. Third, politics. Many of these tokens have some sort of political statement on them regarding the CW.
You got some good answers. (I had not thought of "having to move quickly" as an issue, but with southern armies in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, I guess that would have been some concern.) I add that simply "Gresham's Law" forced hard money from circulation. With the North's success not certain, silver and gold (and copper) were at a premium. As for references, the standard books are by the Fulds, Melvin (father) and George (son). Their books have been reprinted a couple of times. However, they do break the tokens into two broad areas: Patriotics and Store Cards. The website citation was a good pointer. I like it myself. However, the information there comes from the books and is only part of what appears in the books. If you are serious about CWTs, you need the books.
I have the Store Card book by Fuld, and it is awesome. However, it is QUITE pricey. I think the Patriotic book is much more affordable.
