Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - One Scruple H. T. Apothecaries Weight Token
This collectible weight token was issued in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is marked “ONE SCRUPLE” with “H. T.” It is an example of an apothecaries weight token used in the medical and pharmaceutical trade.
Token Details:
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Issuer/Marking: H. T.
- Type: Apothecaries weight token
- Denomination: One Scruple
- Category: Medical / pharmaceutical trade token
- Material: Metal alloy
- Shape: Round
- Era: 19th–early 20th century (estimated)
Historical Background:
Apothecaries weight tokens were used by pharmacists, druggists, and medical suppliers as practical measuring references in the days before standardized modern weighing systems became common. The apothecaries system was widely used in the United States for measuring medicines and pharmaceutical ingredients.
A scruple was a traditional apothecaries unit of weight equal to 20 grains, or approximately 1.3 grams. Tokens marked with weight denominations were often used by druggists and related businesses to identify standard measures and maintain accuracy in preparing medicines.
Philadelphia was an important center for medicine, pharmacy, and commerce in the 18th and 19th centuries, making tokens connected to local pharmaceutical activity of special interest to collectors.
This piece is a unique addition for collectors of:
- Apothecary tokens
- Medical and pharmaceutical history
- Philadelphia memorabilia
- Trade tokens
- Exonumia
- Early American commercial artifacts
Please examine photographs carefully for the exact condition, markings, wear, and surface details of the token being offered.
