Pre-Civil War Trade Token: Joseph Brothers of Liverpool, England, San Francisco, California, c. 1850s

A bronze trade token issued by Joseph Brothers, jewelers and watchmakers, located at 149 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, California, circa 1850s. The obverse depicts "Joseph Brothers / of Liverpool Eng. / watch makers/ jewelers opticians/ general importers / 149 Montgomery St. / San Francisco, Cal." The reverse reads "cheapest house/ in California for / good watches /diamonds / jewelry/ silverware cutlery &c." The token measures 29mm in diameter. Joseph Brothers were among a handful of San Francisco merchants who commissioned California small denomination gold coins as early as 1852. This specific token was issued after the firm relocated from 175 Clay Street to 149 Montgomery Street, placing them among coiners and assayers. The token is considered exceedingly rare.

Associated People/Businesses

• JOSEPH BROTHERS

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Jewelry
• Numismatics

Physical Location