United States of America 1867 N/A Hard Times Tokens - Rulau

Coin / United States of America / 1867 / N/A / Hard Times Tokens - Rulau /

The item in question is a Hard Times Token from the year 1867, associated with the United States of America. This particular token falls under the series "Hard Times Tokens - Rulau," which refers to a collection of tokens that emerged during the economic downturn of the 1830s and 1840s. These tokens were often issued by private businesses and organizations as a response to the shortage of official currency. This specific token is made from brass, a material commonly used during this period in token production. Although the coin's precise physical dimensions, such as width, height, diameter, weight, and edge type, are not indicated—suggesting it may be uncirculated or a sample—its history is significant. The token does not have a mint mark, indicating it was likely produced without an affiliation to a specific mint, as was common for many tokens of the time. With no recorded mintage and the categorization as a "Mint Strike," this piece could be considered rarer than others in its series. Hard Times Tokens, often used as a form of local currency during economic distress, now serve as historic artifacts reflecting the financial struggles of their time. Although there is no monetary denomination stated, such tokens can hold considerable collectible value depending on their condition, rarity, and the historical context surrounding each piece. Overall, this 1867 Hard Times Token encapsulates a unique moment in American history, serving both as a collector's item and as a reflection of the economic conditions of the era.