Fred, Bob, & Andy 2 1/2 cents token

[Iron Buzz]

The token in question is the diamond-shaped piece on the left. It reads, "Fred, Bob, and Andy, St Paul, Minn", and the reverse reads, "Good for 2 1/2 cents in Trade". I haven't had any luck learning anything about "Fred, Bob, and Andy's" in St. Paul. Wondering if anyone can at least help me date this, if not learn more about the establishment. Thanks!

 

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[SD51]

Check out tokencatalog.com. Narrow your search to tokens from st. paul, Minnesota. There are 211 pages just for that category. Good luck!

 

[idahotokens]

Please post cropped pics of both sides to tokencatalog - or I can with your permission, measurement, and pic of reverse. I'll check with the guy who is cataloging MN tokens to see what he says. 2½¢ tokens were commonly used in pool halls ca. 1920-1950
John in the Great 208

 

[Iron Buzz]

Please post cropped pics of both sides to tokencatalog - or I can with your permission, measurement, and pic of reverse. I'll check with the guy who is cataloging MN tokens to see what he says. 2½¢ tokens were commonly used in pool halls ca. 1920-1950
John in the Great 208

So, the fact that the value is 2 1/2 cents has no bearing on the existence of U.S. minted 1/2 cent coins, is that right? Was the idea more like, you needed two tokens to have a nickle?

 

[Iron Buzz]

Please post cropped pics of both sides to tokencatalog - or I can with your permission, measurement, and pic of reverse. I'll check with the guy who is cataloging MN tokens to see what he says. 2½¢ tokens were commonly used in pool halls ca. 1920-1950
John in the Great 208

I hesitate to create yet another account on yet another internet site, so if you could please post these, I would be very grateful.

 

[idahotokens]

Right - two cues for a nickel was common in many pool halls. Earlier, in the pre-Prohibition era, when whiskey drinks were priced at one bit or 12½¢, some businesses made change for a quarter with one dime and a 2½¢ token.
John

So, the fact that the value is 2 1/2 cents has no bearing on the existence of U.S. minted 1/2 cent coins, is that right? Was the idea more like, you needed two tokens to have a nickle?

 

[idahotokens]

Will do - thanks! I'll post the link when I have it done.
John

I hesitate to create yet another account on yet another internet site, so if you could please post these, I would be very grateful.

View attachment 1447524 View attachment 1447525

 

[idahotokens]

Saint Paul, Minnesota (Ramsey County), U.S.A. [CA5]

B SQ 23 [CA5]

FRED, BOB & ANDY / ST. PAUL, / MINN. GOOD FOR / 2½¢ / IN TRADE TC-482397 *** Image courtesy of and collection of "Iron Buzz"