Our Country Civil War Token Value Guide

The 1863 Our Country Civil War Token is a significant piece of numismatic history, minted privately to address the severe coinage shortage during the American Civil War. These copper Patriotic tokens served as vital tools for commerce until they were officially banned by the Coinage Act of 1864.

What affects the value of Our Country Civil War Token?

• The current market value for these tokens generally ranges from $25 to $28 depending on condition.
• Surface preservation and the visibility of fine details on the shield and wreath significantly impact pricing.
• The presence of original copper luster or attractive toning can increase the desirability for collectors.
• Evidence of wear from circulation or environmental damage like corrosion will lower the overall value.

How to Identify Our Country Civil War Token?

• Look for the prominent Union shield design centered within a decorative wreath on the obverse.
• Verify the presence of the bold text 'OUR COUNTRY' featured within the token's design.
• Confirm the material is copper and the date is specifically 1863, the peak year for Patriotic token production.
• Check for the standard size, which typically mimics the Indian Head cent of the era.

History of Our Country Civil War Token

During the American Civil War, a severe shortage of government-issued coinage led merchants to strike their own private tokens to facilitate commerce. These 'Patriotic' tokens often displayed pro-Union sentiments or imagery. They were officially banned by Congress in 1864 with the passage of the Coinage Act, which made the private issuance of money a crime.