By the way, they weren't used for smuggling opium. Just how much opium could you put in one of those? They were most likely lockets for a strand of a loved ones hair, or a picture of a loved one. I've always liked the term "Box Dollar" better in reference to them.
<< <i>By the way, they weren't used for smuggling opium. Just how much opium could you put in one of those? They were most likely lockets for a strand of a loved ones hair, or a picture of a loved one. >>
ok the hair thing is a tad creepy, I guess thats what they did back in the day
I don't think they were used for smuggling the opium so much as they were used just to store it when kept on their person. They are cool no matter what their use was for, but as an opium holder, well, to me, that's added points on the coolness scale.
The thing that sucks is that it took two trade dollars to make 1 of these. What a waste, I collect the series and have no intrest in these or potty dollars which I have always wondered why. I can see why others do they just don't register with me.
I think they are part of the history of the trade dollar and personally think they should be part of a trade dollar set (sorry to part ways with you on that one, Crypto!). I imagine that they were sold to sailors to carry pictures of their loved one. The repurposing of items has always interested me and "box dollars" just add to the interest and variety of the series. Any other coins made into these little repositories? I don't think so.
Oh, if you can get one for around $200 I think you did ok.
Comments
Ray
They were most likely lockets for a strand of a loved ones hair, or a picture of a loved one.
I've always liked the term "Box Dollar" better in reference to them.
Ray
<< <i>By the way, they weren't used for smuggling opium. Just how much opium could you put in one of those?
They were most likely lockets for a strand of a loved ones hair, or a picture of a loved one.
>>
ok the hair thing is a tad creepy, I guess thats what they did back in the day
<< <i>I've always liked the term "Box Dollar" better in reference to them. >>
I agree.
"Keep your malarkey filter in good operating order" -Walter Breen
"Keep your malarkey filter in good operating order" -Walter Breen
It depends on how much residue is left
Here's an 1878-S Box/opium Trade $1 on eBay closing shortly.
These are very cool items....bet there is a lot of history in these "coins."
Anyone own one?
eBay Link
Oh, if you can get one for around $200 I think you did ok.