The 1838 Hard Times Token inscribed with “Am I Not A Woman & A Sister” is a powerful and rare piece of American numismatic and social history. Struck during the economic hardships of the late 1830s, it served not only as alternative currency but also as a poignant symbol in the abolitionist movement. The design features a kneeling enslaved woman in chains with her hands raised in supplication, surrounded by the inscription challenging society to recognize her humanity and rights. This imagery traces its origins to 18th century British abolitionist tokens and was adapted by American activists to highlight the double injustice faced by enslaved women — as both slaves and females denied equal rights.

This token was produced by the American Anti-Slavery Society and manufactured by companies like Gibbs, Gardner and Company who contributed to spreading abolitionist messages through everyday objects. The striking of such tokens during the “Hard Times” economic crisis — marked by bank failures, unemployment, and distrust in government financial policies — shows how activists took advantage of widespread currency shortages to disseminate powerful political statements. The token’s circulation served a dual function: to provide a form of small change when official currency was scarce and as a constant reminder of the urgent moral issue of slavery.

The phrase “Am I Not A Woman & A Sister” in the token’s legend evoked empathy and solidarity by emphasizing the shared humanity and gender of the enslaved individual, appealing to the sensibilities of women’s anti-slavery societies and the general public. The token thus became a tool of both advocacy and education, used in petitions, rallies, and as conversation pieces in homes across the nation. Its rarity today reflects both historical suppression and the token’s significance as a marker of early intersectional advocacy, recognizing that the fight for abolition was intertwined with the struggle for women’s rights.

Collecting this token connects you to a pivotal moment in American history where economic hardship fueled social awareness and reform activism. Beyond mere currency substitution, this artifact serves as a tangible link to the voices that challenged entrenched injustice and laid groundwork for future civil rights progress. For collectors of Hard Times tokens, abolitionist memorabilia, or American history, this token remains one of the most evocative and meaningful pieces available.

Adding the 1838 “Am I Not A Woman & A Sister” token to your collection is both an investment in a rare numismatic piece and a tribute to the courageous early antislavery campaigners who employed art and commerce to advance humanity’s cause. This token invites reflection on the complexities of history and the power of symbols to inspire change. It comes authenticated and ready to be a centerpiece of your historic and social justice collection.