(1953-56) Token TC-501817 Brass 25mm Pontiac

Coin Details

Description

This brass token measuring 25 millimeters from circa 1953-56 is cataloged as TC-501817 and originates from Pontiac, Michigan. Pontiac, an industrial suburb of Detroit named for the famous Ottawa chief, was closely tied to the automobile industry through General Motors' Pontiac division, which was headquartered there. Trade tokens from mid-twentieth century Michigan industrial cities typically served local businesses — taverns, car washes, parking lots, and amusement venues — that needed small-denomination exchange media for coin-operated equipment or customer loyalty programs. The 1953-56 date range places this token in the prosperous postwar era when American automobile manufacturing was at its peak and Detroit-area communities were thriving industrial centers. Brass tokens of this size and period were commonly used for transit systems, parking meters, vending machines, and trade at specific establishments. The TC (Token Catalog) numbering provides a standardized reference for tokens that fall outside other specialized catalog systems. Pontiac tokens from this era document the everyday commercial life of a community that was defined by its relationship to the automotive industry.

Rarity Notes

TC-501817 is uncommon. Mid-twentieth century Michigan trade tokens are collected by specialists in automotive-city history and Michigan exonumia.

Cross References

PCGS #928795; TC-501817; Pontiac, MI