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2021-41, Token
Communion Token of the Associate Church of Philadelphia (Presbyterian)
2021-41, Token

Communion Token of the Associate Church of Philadelphia (Presbyterian)

Date1799
Maker Unidentified
OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
MediumPewter or lead
DimensionsOverall: 24.5 mm x 20.5 mm Weight: 101.59 grains
Credit LineMuseum Purchase, Lasser Numismatics Fund
Object number2021-41
DescriptionObverse: Inscription ASSOCIATE over CHURCH. within plain border.

Reverse: PHILAD. with 1799. below.
Label TextThe use of church tokens in 18th century America was very limited. Amongst the most widely known today are those issued by two New York congregations. While the tokens made in 1799 for the Associated Church of New York City were made of pewter or lead, those for the First Presbyterian Church of Albany were overstruck on worn out copper coins.

Strikingly similar to the former are the pewter or lead tokens made for the Associate Church of Philadelphia. Also dated 1799, they follow the same format used by the New York congregation (see 2008-46,11), showing there was communication between the Presbyterians of both cities.

Communion tokens were distributed to those who passed a religious examination, administered in advance, and were redeemed at the service. Over time, requirements for receiving communion became less stringent.

Breen-1178