United States of America 1870 N/A Hard Times Tokens - Rulau

Coin / United States of America / 1870 / N/A / Hard Times Tokens - Rulau /

The coin in question is a Hard Times Token from the Rulau series, minted in the United States of America during the period of 1870 to 1880. This particular piece is notable for its historical context, as Hard Times Tokens emerged in the wake of the economic turmoil during the 1830s and 1840s, serving as a form of currency when coin shortages occurred. Crafted from brass, this token holds no official denomination and features a design that reflects the social and economic themes of its time. The absence of mint mark and the fact that it is categorized as a "Mint Strike" indicates that it was created with the intention of public circulation, even though it is more commonly collected today than used. The token's unique characteristics include its undefined physical measurements—such as weight, width, height, and diameter—implying that specific details may not be documented or may vary among specimens. As a collectible item, its historical significance and material composition make it intriguing for numismatists. With a total mintage of zero referenced, this suggests that the token may have been intended for issue, but records do not reflect any coins actually struck in the specified series. While it may not possess immediate monetary value or a clear denomination, it carries considerable numismatic interest due to its age, historical context, and the cultural significance of the Hard Times Tokens within American history.