Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Token, store |
Common Name |
Coal Scrip |
Catalog Number |
1989.7.44 |
Maker |
Osborne Register Co. |
Date |
1904-1957 |
Material(s) |
Brass |
Dimensions |
Dia-0.875 inches |
Description |
This coin is a $0.10 piece of coal scrip from the W.G. Duncan Coal Company. The coin is round, made of brass and has a star shaped hole in the center. The inscription on the obverse reads: "W.G. DUNCAN COAL CO/ PAY BEARER IN MDSE/ 10/ CHARGE OUR ACCOUNT/ LUZERNE - GRAHAN/ CORPORATION." The reverse bears and inscription which reads: "PAYABLE IN MERCHANDISE ONLY/ 10/ Orco/ PATENTED/ NOT TRANSFERRABLE." The coin has maker's marks on either side of the hole that read: "OSBORNE/ REGISTER CO./ CINCINNATI." |
Notes |
Due to isolation, coal companies began issuing token money in the 1880s to meet their payroll. The prices in company stores were higher and the stores became another source of profit for the co. owners. Other stores accepted the script but only at a discount. Miners were often issued scrip as an advance on wages, and were only paid cash when they were out of debt to the company, a rare occurence. |
Collection |
KHS Museum Collection |
People |
Duncan Coal Co. |
Subjects |
Coins Coal Coal miners Coal mining Companies Currency Money |
Search Terms |
Muhlenberg County (Ky.) Luzerne (Ky.) |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |