United States of America 1866 N/A Hard Times Tokens - Rulau 25¢

Coin / United States of America / 1866 / N/A / Hard Times Tokens - Rulau / 25¢ (Twenty Five Cents, Quarter)

This coin is a "Hard Times Token" from the Rulau series, commonly associated with the economic hardships faced in the United States during the years of 1866 to 1869. Specifically, this token is denominated at 25 cents (25¢), serving both as a monetary substitute and a reflection of the era's financial struggles. Crafted from brass, this token does not have a specified mint or designer, which is typical for many tokens of this nature that were produced by private entities rather than official government mints. It is considered a "Mint Strike," indicating that it was produced intentionally with high-quality standards for circulation among the populace during its time. While specific physical dimensions such as width, height, diameter, and weight are not provided, its historical context and composition are significant. The absence of a mint mark suggests that it was produced without the involvement of a recognized governmental mint, further underpinning its status as a token rather than a traditional coin. This token represents not only a piece of currency but also a snapshot of a challenging period in American history, making it an intriguing item for collectors of numismatic memorabilia, particularly those with a focus on tokens and the socio-economic context of the mid-19th century. The mintage is unspecified, but it's important to note that tokens like this were often produced in limited quantities, adding to their appeal among collectors. In summary, this Hard Times Token serves as a historical artifact, highlighting the unique economic conditions of the United States during the late 1860s, and remains an object of interest for both collectors and historians alike.