Chicago expo token

[Ninjafossils]

Got this in an antique store but can't find it online. Is it a recent reproduction, a counterfeit? Fake?

 

[HenryWaltonJonesJr]

Doesn't appear to be from the 1893 or 1933 Chicago worlds fair but another exposition. You'd have a hard time finding it on image searches alone because those two will be on top and made all sorts of coins and tokens for them. Looks legit whatever it is.

 

[Bramblefind]

There's no photo but this sounds like it is the same piece -

American Numismatic Society: White metal Medal, United States, 1873. 1935.83.9

White metal Medal, United States, 1873. 1935.83.9
Obverse: INTER-STATE INDUSTRIAL EXPOSITION OF CHICAGO - view of exposition building
Reverse: SCIENCE ART INDUSTRY AGRICULTURE - eagle stg. l. with motto on ribbon held in mouth

 

[Ninjafossils]

Im inclined to believe that, but it should have 1873 on it. This has NO date whatsoever

 

[Helix]

I have never heard of any event in Chicago where they constructed such buildings other then the Worlds Columbian expo in 1893. Also 1873 was only 2 years after the great Chicago and most of the city was destroyed, would think the city would still be recovering from the fire 1873 and not worried about constructing elaborate buildings for events. In fact if I remember correct the 1893 worlds fair was partly a celebration for Chicago and how far it has grown and improved since the fire of 1871. I also tend to think your token is 1893 or 1833 worlds fair. EDIT- Did a little digging and I stand corrected. The Interstate Industrial Exposition was held in Chicago during 1873. Now that I know this I see no reason to think your token is not from the 1873 unless you suspect it is a modern copy.

 

[Bramblefind]

Here's an article about the 1873 event. Also I don't think the 1873 date is on the example held at the ANS either. It would have been noted in the transcription of the legends.

 

[Ninjafossils]

Ok. I just am doubtful cause it kinda had this modern metal look on it. Almost like it has a layer of painy

 

[Helix]

Ok. I just am doubtful cause it kinda had this modern metal look on it. Almost like it has a layer of painy

I am no expert but the I think the cheap silver paint look is just because of the less quality plating they used back then. Here is another one I found and looks very similar as far as patina goes.

For what it is worth I just noticed the name of the engraver or artist on the token above. Just below the building and too the right. Looks like J.S. WEBER. Possibly yours Ninjafossils has same.

 

[Sentrom]

Your token depicts the Interstate Industrial Exposition building, the building was 800 feet long by 200 feet wide by 160’ dome roof with fluted glass. Anderson European Hotel and Restaurant had a branch restaurant in the building “Order what you want and pay for what you order.” Of course across the street you could have a 25 cent dinner or breakfast at the California Restaurant.


The building was razed in 1891 to make way for the Art Institute.

 

[Ninjafossils]

My token DOES NOT have the engraving.