1834 Hard Times Token – “My Experiment, My Currency, My Glory” 
- Current Price $0.99 ( ) No Reserve
- 1 Bid(s) View Bid History
- High Bidder: Briar0rose
| Shipping Options | |
|---|---|
| Pickup | $0.00 |
| FedEx / UPS | $12.00 ($3.00 as additional item) |
1834 Hard Times Token – “My Experiment, My Currency, My Glory”
This 1834 Hard Times Token is a politically charged piece of American numismatic history, issued during the economic turmoil of the Hard Times Era (1833–1844). These privately minted tokens were created as a response to Andrew Jackson's controversial financial policies, particularly his opposition to the Second Bank of the United States and his introduction of the Specie Circular, which required payment for government land to be made in gold or silver.
Obverse: Features a bust of Andrew Jackson, accompanied by the text “MY SUBSTITUTE FOR THE U.S. BANK,” “MY EXPERIMENT,” “MY CURRENCY,” and “MY GLORY,” satirizing Jackson’s financial policies.
Reverse: Depicts a running hog with the inscription “CREDIT PERISH COMMERCE,” “MY VICTORY,” and the date “1834,” symbolizing the perceived destruction of economic stability caused by Jackson's actions.
Condition:
Graded VG (Very Good), this token exhibits moderate wear but retains legible inscriptions and discernible design elements on both sides. The dark patina adds to its vintage appeal and historical authenticity.
Provenance/History:
Hard Times Tokens like this were not government-issued but instead circulated widely during the economic instability following Jackson's veto of the recharter of the Second Bank of the United States in 1832. They reflect the public's frustration and divided opinions regarding Jackson’s financial policies and the subsequent Panic of 1837. These tokens served as small-denomination currency when official coinage was scarce and are now prized for their historical and political significance.
Specifications:
- Year: 1834
- Material: Copper
- Diameter: Approximately 28 mm
- Weight: Varies slightly (approx. 8–12 grams)
- Obverse Design: Bust of Andrew Jackson with satirical inscriptions.
- Reverse Design: Running hog with inscriptions criticizing Jackson’s financial policies.
Rarity and Collectibility:
Hard Times Tokens are highly collectible for their historical importance, and this specific variety, with its sharp political satire, is particularly desirable. Tokens in better grades command strong premiums due to their scarcity and cultural significance.
Special Notes:
This 1834 Hard Times Token is not only a fascinating piece of economic and political history but also a powerful reminder of the public sentiment and economic challenges of 19th-century America. It is an excellent addition to any collection of early American tokens or political memorabilia.
Our Commitment to You:
Customer Guarantee
At Mesilla Valley Estate Sales, we take pride in the authenticity and quality of each item we offer. Here's our commitment to you:
- Authenticity Assurance: We guarantee the coins in this listing to be authentic, handpicked from pre-owned estate collections.
- Accurate Description: We guarantee that each coin is described accurately on our website. The metal type and purity are described accurately. We ensure thorough verification of these specifics before listing.
- Review at Pickup: You will have the opportunity to review your item during the designated pickup time. We encourage you to inspect your purchase to confirm that it matches the description provided. Please note, once you leave the property with the item, it is considered yours.
Please Note:
In the rare event of a typographical error in our listings, including gem descriptions and pricing, we reserve the right to correct such errors. If an item is sold based on incorrect information, we will provide a full refund to the buyer and adjust the product information accordingly.
Our guarantee aligns with our pickup policy, ensuring you have the opportunity to review your purchase at the designated pickup time and location. It's important to understand that once the item is picked up, the sale is final, and the item cannot be returned.
We believe that the coins you purchase will become cherished heirlooms, admired for generations.