Slave Tag? Not Sure

[hntrace350]

Found this on a hunt today in northern NC. Not sure what it is

 

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[FloridaBeachBuzzard]

Kind of looks like a cremation tag to me, but if that says 1850 then a slave tag seems more likely

 

[CC Hunter]

The disheartening news is the item is most definitely NOT a slave tag.

By all appearances, I believe the item bears the date of 1950, rather than 1850, and the scratch across the face has altered the numeral "9" to appear as an "8" at first glance. The font (style of letters/numerals) is also 20th Century era.

Furthermore, the only metallic tags or badges ever issued for slave laborers, were from the city of Charleston, South Carolina, and the adjacent burough of Charleston Neck. These "Slave Tags", or Slave Hire Badges are known to be issued from years 1800 to 1865, and carry the city, license number, occupation, and year, in stamped and engraved detail.

http://www.wakeforestcoins.com/slave badges/slave badges.htm

CC Hunter

 

[Mich. Wolverine]

Looks like a dog license.

 

[PikesPeakCharlie]

First thing that came to mind was a dog tag.

 

[CC Hunter]

The item does look very similar to the Virginia Dog License tags shown here:

 

[hntrace350]

Thanks, my question is answered. Thanks for the pic, it is a dog tag

 

[natepen]

To bad. If it was that would have been a pretty interesting time researching.

 

[Papa Bear]

It is still a unique find. If it got us all looking into it (and scratching heads) then it was worth digging up.