Thanks everyone! Tookybandit, these are from France. Jetons, or basically tokens, were designed by some of France's finest engravers and used for various purposes such as commemorating events or as gifts/bonuses for business or government employees. There are literally thousands of different designs. I have always preferred the ship themes and the industry-themed jetons.
I should add that many copper or bronze jetons are local issues and not minted officially, as the silver ones were. The Paris mint officially produced and regulated the silver jetons, which is likely why quality seems at least as good as their coinage was.
Those are gorgeous! I can see how they would be addicting. What reference material do you use for these? (Like I need any more books to read or collections to start ).
Mitchiner's Vol.2 - Token, jetons, etc... here's a link to the book - jeton book
That's the only comprehensive book I've come across in English, although auction sites often have info from other resources (French publications). In my own pursuits, I've always been more interested in the artwork and designs than specific historical info. Each piece can be a puzzle and information is available but in bits and pieces and scattered about. The later issues are more publicized (1800's) but the early ones can be hard to pin down.
FilthyBroke
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George
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I should add that many copper or bronze jetons are local issues and not minted officially, as the silver ones were. The Paris mint officially produced and regulated the silver jetons, which is likely why quality seems at least as good as their coinage was.
Cathy
That's the only comprehensive book I've come across in English, although auction sites often have info from other resources (French publications). In my own pursuits, I've always been more interested in the artwork and designs than specific historical info. Each piece can be a puzzle and information is available but in bits and pieces and scattered about. The later issues are more publicized (1800's) but the early ones can be hard to pin down.