Token ID? Age? Use?

[chukers]

I posted this in todays forum but was suggested to post it here too check it out see if anyone knows anything more about it...

Token ID? Age? Use?

Chukers

http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php/topic,315393.0.html

 

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[idahotokens]

Not a token, but a keytag blank. Several manufacturers sold blanks of various designs and probably a set of number/letter punches to organizations (my theory is that they were used as a fundraiser). The lodge would then punch in (on the ribbon) the name and return address of members for a dollar or so - making a little money on each one for the group. These have become popular collectibles - some try to get one per state, or one of each type (Odd Fellows, Moose, Eagles, Foresters, etc.). There are also a number of tags that don't seem to be related to a fraternal organization - I have seen them with a bulldog, an auto, etc. I suppose that type may have been available from a jeweler or other business that made them to order. All the ones I have seen are "german silver" or a similar metal and the hole is for putting on a key ring. The generally date from 1910-1925 or so.
John in ID