1856 Token Compos. Spiel-Munze Brass City Hall New York Gaming Gold Double Eagle

Coin Details

Auction Record

$120 MS64DMPL 09-02-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1856 brass gaming token reproduces the design of a gold double eagle ($20 coin) and features an image of City Hall, New York. Cataloged as a "Spiel-Munze" (German for "play money"), this piece was manufactured for use in card games and other gaming activities where coin-like tokens substituted for actual currency. The "Compos." designation indicates a composition metal or composite alloy. Gaming tokens imitating American gold coins were produced in enormous quantities during the nineteenth century, primarily by German and French manufacturers for export to the American market. The City Hall New York reverse provides a decorative element while the double eagle format established the token's gaming denomination. These pieces were never intended to deceive — their base metal composition and gaming inscriptions clearly distinguish them from genuine gold coins.

Rarity Notes

Brass gaming token, Spiel-Munze. Double eagle design with City Hall New York. Common gaming token category.

Cross References

PCGS #805735; 1856 Spiel-Munze, Brass, City Hall New York, Double Eagle Design