1849 Token California Brass Counter Gold Half Eagle

Coin Details

Auction Record

$60 AU50 11-08-2017 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1849 brass counter reproduces the design of a gold half eagle ($5 coin) as a gaming or counting piece. Brass counters imitating the designs of gold coins were produced in large quantities during the nineteenth century for use in card games, accounting, and other non-monetary applications where the physical presence of coin-like objects was useful. The California date of 1849 evokes the Gold Rush, though these counters were typically manufactured in the eastern United States or Europe by firms specializing in gaming accessories. The "Spiel-Munze" designation (German for "play coin") that appears on similar pieces indicates the central European manufacturing tradition that produced many American-market gaming counters. These pieces occupy an interesting numismatic niche between tokens, medals, and gaming accessories.

Rarity Notes

Brass counter/gaming piece. California gold design imitation. Common category but specific varieties vary in availability.

Cross References

PCGS #594576; 1849 California Brass Counter, Gold Half Eagle Design