Owen Vincent Coffin began his career in commerce, representing a significant Connecticut manufacturing firm in New York. He transitioned into public service and leadership roles, notably serving as president of the Brooklyn YMCA during the Civil War and being active in the New York Committee of the United States Christian Commission. Coffin later moved to Connecticut, where he held various leadership positions in financial and civic institutions, including serving as president of the Middlesex Mutual Assurance Company and mayor of Middletown. He was elected to the Connecticut Senate and later became governor, where he enacted progressive labor reforms.

Owen Vincent Coffin's political identity is marked by a blend of progressive labor rights and a steadfast support for Union causes during the Civil War. His legislative efforts to prohibit convict labor and protect child workers reveal a nuanced approach to economic reform. Coffin's dual leadership roles in both religious and civic organizations during the Civil War highlight a deeply rooted commitment to community and moral governance. His unexpected convergence with opposing factions on labor issues suggests a highly calculated strategy to balance industrial interests with social welfare.