Kris,

In their "Nevada Bottle Book," Fred Holabird and Jack Haddock have a section 
on trade tokens.  According to their research on the subject, the "fad" of 
providing trade tokens "as a monetary means of exchange, 'promise to pay'" 
began about 1910 and lasted for almost 25 years, taking it to c. 1935.  They 
indicate that these tokens were used by bakeries, dairies, general stores, 
saloons and at such places as the Nevada State Prison and the Carson Hot 
Springs.  The value varied, including 2-1/2, 6-1/4 and 7-1/2 cents, as well 
as 5, 10, 15 and 25 cents.  Shapes and sizes varied, too, but apparently 
most were similar in size to the equivalent legal tender.  Materials 
included brass and aluminum.

The book was published in 1979 and 1981 (2nd ed.) by R. F. Smith, printed by 
The Jolly Printer in Reno, Nevada.  Hope this helps with your question.

Monique E. Kimball
Field Supervisor
Kautz Environmental Consultants, Inc.
5200 Neil Road, Suite 200
Reno, Nevada  89502
(775) 829-4411
e-mail:  [log in to unmask]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Kris Oswald" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 11:28 AM
Subject: hotel site artifact


Stamped aluminum token both sides  diameter 25mm
Listed as Commerce Lake House  J. L. Vail
On the reverse is the usual good for 5 c trade
From an Old Hotel located in Old Commerce Village Commerce Twp, Mi

From this token and one old photo hanging in a current operating
barbershop
I located the site today and I am  wondering when this type of token had
its rise
In popularity for use? The hotel  photo has an unconfirmed date of 1908
written on it.
And I am wondering if that date will correlate with the Mfg of the
token?

Any insight would be a great help

I have secured permission for site testing from the owners behind the
hotel at this point .
I have a feeling the hotel privy locations are intact now in the back
yard of the permission site
Numerous ceramic and bottle fragmented sherds have been located by the
owners of the property

Thanks very much
Kris Oswald
Commerce Twp Area Historical Area Society



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