1694 Token Elephant - Diagonals

Coin Details

Auction Record

$69,000 MS61 01-01-2007 Heritage Auctions

Description

This 1694 Elephant Token of the "Diagonals" variety is identified by diagonal lines or hatching in the design field, a feature not present on other varieties in the series. The obverse shows the familiar elephant facing left that characterizes the entire Elephant Token family, while the reverse incorporates the distinctive diagonal elements that give this variety its name. The token is struck in copper at approximately 29mm diameter. The Elephant Token series has long fascinated collectors and researchers due to the uncertainty surrounding its origin and purpose. The tokens appear to date from the 1690s and exist in several varieties including LON/DON, GOD PRESERVE CAROLINA, GOD PRESERVE NEW ENGLAND, Thick and Thin Planchet, Sword in 2nd Quadrant, and this Diagonals variety. The diagonal hatching may represent a specific die preparation technique, an intentional design element, or evidence of die damage or modification. Some scholars have indicated the diagonals could represent engraver's guidelines that were meant to be removed but remained on the finished die. The Diagonals variety is among the scarcer types in the series and is particularly interesting from a die-study perspective. Colonial numismatists continue to debate whether the various Elephant Token types represent a single coordinated production by one entity or multiple related but independent issues by different colonial interests. The Diagonals variety's unique feature adds another dimension to this ongoing scholarly discussion.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. The Diagonals variety is one of the scarcer Elephant Token types, with very few examples appearing at auction in any given decade.

Cross References

PCGS #61; Breen; Hodder; cf. PCGS #67 (LON/DON), PCGS #70 (Carolina), PCGS #55 (Thick Planchet)