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2008-46,11, Token
Communion Token of the Associate Church of New York (Presbyterian)
2008-46,11, Token

Communion Token of the Associate Church of New York (Presbyterian)

Date1799
OriginAmerica, New York, New York City
MediumPewter or lead
DimensionsOverall: 23 mm x 18 mm Weight: 82.12 grains
Credit LineGift of the Lasser family.
Object number2008-46,11
DescriptionObverse: Inscription ASSOCIATE over CHURCH. within plain border.

Reverse: N. YORK with 1799. below.
Label TextStemming from earlier European practices, the 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 like this one 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 these soft metal New York tokens are those made for the Associate Church of Philadelphia (see 2021-41). Also dated 1799, they follow the same format, 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-1172
ProvenanceEx. Colls. H. Oechsner, Groves. Stack's, January 12, 1999, Lot 104.