Exonumia are numismatic items (such as tokens, medals, or scrip) other than coins and paper money. This includes “Good For” tokens, badges, counterstamped coins, elongated coins, encased coins, souvenir medallions, tags, wooden nickels and other similar items. It is related to numismatics (concerned with coins which have been legal tender), and many coin collectors are also exonumists.
… “Tokens” are often made of cheaper metals: copper, pewter, aluminium, brass and tin were commonly used, while bakelite, leather, porcelain, and other less durable materials are also known.
A key point of difference between a token coin and a legal tender coin is that the latter is issued by a governmental authority and is freely exchangeable for goods. However, a token coin typically has a much more limited use and is often issued by a private company, group, association or individual. In the case of “currency tokens” issued by a company but also recognized by the state there is a convergence between tokens and currency.
from wikipedia
Amusement games often used ‘tokens.’ With the wonderful Havre de Grace history items we have on display, you can view some of the games from the Hatem Store that would have used tokens.
Vintage Tokens
You probably can guess what animal was first used on circulating coins: NOOOOOOOoooooooo – not the BUFFALO!!! The EAGLE was first.
But do you know who has been recorded as having the first coin collection?
The earliest recorded coin collection belonged to the first emperor of Rome, Augustus Caesar. He lived from 63 B.C. to A.D. 14. That is over 2,000 years ago!
The above info is from the U.S. Mint Site
Of course, if it’s a regular coin collection as in legal tender, you would be a numismatic!
In either case, stop in and visit us at Bahoukas Antique Mall. We have a great assortment of coins AND tokens.
And as always, we’ll be watchin’ for ya!
