Expert: Ronald Fern - 1/16/2011

Question
Hello, Ronald..I'm Ken from South Texas. I hope you are well and happy! My question is this: on the token i just found(less than an hour ago with my metal detector)where the word Ginger is printed there is an oval under the word that has the #8 stamped in it. Could you explain why this number is there? Thank You for your time and info....Sincerely, Ken...Bye!!!

Answer
Hi Kenneth:

Thanks for picking me to answer your question.

When asking a question, especially with tokens, always provide as much information about your piece as possible. This helps to pinpoint what you may have. Attaching a photo would also help. I'll answer your question as best I can. If you want to ask a follow up question by providing more information, such as the size, thickness, or metal composition of your token, I'll revise my answer or add to it as required.

It's rather difficult to say what your token many be worth with the information you provided. I'm guessing that it may be a cigarette token. These were mainly struck during the 1930's to 1950's. I searched the web and found the following link that may help to explain what you have. There are several photos listed. Your token may have been made by Groetchen Tool and Mfg. Co. of Chicago in 1937 to 1938. The "8" on your token may have been done after it was struck, especially if it is stamped into the item. I do not know what it means.

Link: http://users.pullman.com/fjstevens/tokens/bunco/mints.html

They were used in a machine like the one shown here: http://www.arcade-museum.com/game_detail.php?game_id=2569

I found a token that just closed on eBay that had the following description. "You have an opportunity to bid on a trade token good for 1 pack of cigarettes.  On the other side it says "Ginger".  This token is 22 mm in diameter and made of brass. It was offered for $0.99, plus $1.00 shipping, and did not sell. Your token may be worth $1 to $3 to an interested collector.

You may want to check US coins and currency listings under exonumia on eBay from time to time to see if your piece is listed what this type of item may bring.

If you live close to a local shop, they should offer an opinion as to the value at no charge. Always try and get at least two opinions and try and deal with PNG dealers if possible. If you should decide to sell your items to a dealer, remember they will offer about 50% to 60% of the retail value. Here's a link to find one in your area: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. Check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.