AKSHCC
(1785) 'USA' BAR TOKEN

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This distinctive token features an intertwined monogram - USA on the obverse, and 13 parallel bars (stripes) on the reverse. It dates from circa 1785, and was probably fashioned by Thomas Wyon of Birmingham, England at the request of a New York merchant. The design of the token mimics the buttons (without eyes) seen on Continental Army Revolutionary War uniforms, which were probably used as prototypes. The typical planchet is narrow and light weight, with incomplete rim denticles. Approximately 125 to 250 examples survive today.
This token has been frequently reproduced over the years. In 1862, John A. Bolen created replica dies from which 65 pieces were struck in copper. Woodward later bought these dies, and struck 12 tokens in silver. There are several diagnostics to ensure authenticity. On the obverse, the "S" in USA should go over the "U", but under the "A". (On the Bolen copy, the "S" extends over the left side of the "A"). On the reverse of a genuine specimen, a small spur extends upward from the top left side of second bar from the bottom; and a small spike extend from the top of the middle of the 6th bar from the bottom. All these diagnostics appear on the pictured token.