Ohio--Cincinnati. Undated (1861-1865) Steamer Lancaster No. 4. Fuld-165FXa-2a. Rarity-9. Copper. Plain Edge. 22 mm. MS-64 BN (PCGS).

A handsome near-Gem, otherwise medium brown surfaces retain traces of original pinkish-apricot color in the protected areas here and there around the peripheries. Glints of olive-gray toning are also evident, especially in the left obverse field. Satiny in texture and smooth in hand, this is a sharp and inviting example with much to recommend it to the advanced specialist. The Lancaster No. 4 was one of several side-wheeler steamships in service from Cincinnati for both passengers and freight. During the Civil War the ship served the Union in tasks that included, among others, ferrying troops on the Tennessee River. She sank in 10 feet of water on November 18, 1864, after striking a log on the Missouri River below Portland, Missouri. Prior to her loss the ship may have been engaged in the illegal smuggling of Confederate cotton into New Orleans, which was occupied by Union forces for much of the War.