Unknown Older Aluminum Pictorial Token

[Butterfield]

I came across this older aluminum token that seems to depict a black male, but has no words. Does anyone know what this might be or when it dates from? Thanks!

 

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[Noah_D]

I did some searching around on google and numista but couldn't find anything. Measurements?

 

[gwcracker]

Looks like Barack Obama but looks to be older.

g

 

[Deep1]

Looks like Barack Obama but looks to be older.

g

Good answer, but I guess that's what you would expect from one who calls himself cracker.

This is an interesting token.
My thought on it, it may or may not be correct:
It has no writing, which makes me think it was circulated among a limited group of people that knew it's meaning.
It reminds me of a cartoon character from the 20's or 30's.

I have sent your pics to a museum that specializes in collecting racist stuff from the past.

https://www.ferris.edu/HTMLS/news/jimcrow/location.htm

Maybe they can help.

Meanwhile, leave it as it is.
Do not attempt to clean.

 

[GopherDaGold]

This is not an attempt at humor but using the keywords 'Negro' 'man' and 'token' took me to articles about Kanye West.
Good luck on your research.

 

[DeepseekerADS]

Back in the 20's & 30's, the term "Little Black Sambo" was popular among the racists. Your token may date to that period, but due to the dirt, I would think an aluminum token in the ground would be a whole lot more corroded.

Ferris State / Jim Crow museum (link above) may be able to help you if you contact them with a picture.

 

[Noah_D]

I dug an Aluminum Token from 1934 yesterday with virtually no corrosion... so its possible.

 

[Deep1]

This is not an attempt at humor but using the keywords 'Negro' 'man' and 'token' took me to articles about Kanye West.
Good luck on your research.

I got the same result when I searched.

 

[Butterfield]

The token measures approx 27mm in diameter. I appreciate everyone's help. My first guess was that it was racist in nature. Hopefully the museum will have more info. Thanks again

 

[Deep1]

No response from jim crow.
Sent another email.

 

[curbdiggercarl57]

Strange question, but if you spin it on a hard surface, does it look like they are kissing?
That or possibly a "cheater" coin flip. You know, both sides "heads"?
Great find, and in great shape for aluminum!
Carl

 

[GopherDaGold]

Strange question, but if you spin it on a hard surface, does it look like they are kissing?
That or possibly a "cheater" coin flip. You know, both sides "heads"?
Great find, and in great shape for aluminum!
Carl

You may be on to something.

 

[Butterfield]

I am wanting some personal opinions on what to do with the Token. I acquired it with a group of other Trade tokens and coins that I collect, but I do not collect this type of material. I read several articles about collecting Black Americana, and specifically racist items. Many museums gather these items and use them as teaching materials. Most advised to not destroy these items, as they are needed as a reminder of the past. Would it be morally right to sell this on Ebay, with a strong disclaimer that I in no way promote racism? A museum or teacher or historian may want this. Just wondered what people think.

 

[tokensmith]

There is currently one of these complete with spinner frame being offered on ebay.

 

[Butterfield]

Can you tell me what they are calling it on Ebay? I can't find it. Thanks

 

[tokensmith]

see item

333337403446​

 

[Iron Buzz]

Its a token negro.

 

[A2coins]

Interesting