1833 Hard Times Token issued by Robinson’s, Jones & Co., a merchant firm operating during the turbulent economic period leading up to the late 1830s financial crisis. Hard Times tokens were privately struck pieces that circulated widely as substitutes for small change during the economic instability of the era.
These tokens emerged during the years surrounding the Panic of 1837, when distrust of banks and shortages of circulating coinage prompted merchants and die makers to produce copper tokens for everyday transactions.
This piece is cataloged as HT-153 / W-MA-020-15a, referencing the standard Hard Times token classification system used by collectors and documented by noted numismatist Russell Rulau, whose work remains a principal reference for Hard Times token attribution.
The token is offered in Extra Fine condition, showing modest circulation wear typical of early 19th-century copper pieces. The main devices and merchant inscription remain easily identifiable in crisp detail, preserving its historical character.
Token Details
Date: 1833
Issuer: Robinson’s, Jones & Co.
Type: Hard Times Merchant Token
Catalog Reference: HT-153 / W-MA-020-15a
Composition: Copper
Condition: Extra Fine
Collector Highlights
Authentic Hard Times token from the early 1830s
Issued by Robinson’s, Jones & Co.
Cataloged variety HT-153
Historic example of early American merchant exonumia
Please review all photographs carefully—they show the exact token you will receive.