High demand for bronze cents in 1864
RogerB
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This letter might provide some idea of how great the need and demand for bronze cents and two-cent coins was in 1864. The letter writer specifically wants to help drive out of use merchant-stamped paper scraps. The original is from RG104 Entry 1 Box 074 as photographed for NNP by John Graffeo. (A transcript is provided for those experiencing difficulty in reading long-hand.)
"Banking and Exchange Office of Walter G. Sterling
Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne Co. Pa.
October 25, 1864
Treasurer, U.S. Mint
Philadelphia
Dear Sir,
Yours of 21st inst., in reply to mine of 19th enclosing draft for $160. For cents, you state my name has hence entered for $100 to be furnished when my xxx xxxx $60 will be sent in about two weeks.
This order is not for myself but for 8 merchants of this place who need the cents very much, many of the shops and some not responsible issue cards stamped 1 & 2 cents, which is about the only currency used in stores, the persons for whom I ordered these desire to drive the cards out of use & if you can by any means give the penny orders at an early day it will confer a favour [sic].
Very truly yours,
/s/ W. G. Sterling"
Comments
Lots of merchant tokens then as well.
Interesting situation.... Thanks Roger... I wonder if any of those paper chits were saved.... Cheers, RickO