Mercer Mining and Manufacturing Co. - PMG Graded - 1860's-70's dated Pennsylvania Mining Stock Certificate

PMG Graded Stock, 50 EPQ About Uncirculated. 

Anthracite coal is a natural mineral characterized by its high carbon and energy content, which produces light and heat (energy when combusted), rendering it an effective fuel source. Its initial use as a fuel in Pennsylvania dates back to 1769, although its significant history commenced with a recorded discovery near Summit Hill and the establishment of the Lehigh Coal Mine Company in 1792. This company sporadically organized expeditions into the wilderness atop Pisgah Ridge to extract coal deposits, albeit with notable challenges and limited success over the subsequent 22 years.

The proprietors of this company operated as absentee managers, depending on teams of laborers led by a foreman to cut timber for constructing so-called 'Arks' (high-sided boats), subsequently mining coal approximately nine miles (present-day Summit Hill) from the right bank of the Lehigh River (the terminus of the Lehigh & Susquehanna Turnpike at Mauch Chunk). They would then transport mule loads to fill the boats for the journey down the rapid-laden Lehigh River, continuing over 60 miles (97 km) to the docks in Philadelphia along the often log-choked and unimproved Delaware River.