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

Copper trade token issued by Joseph Brothers, jewelers and general importers, located at 607 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, California, circa 1850s. The obverse depicts the firm's name and address, while the reverse advertises them as the "cheapest house in California for good watches, diamonds, jewelry, silverware, cutlery, etc." The token measures 29mm in diameter. Joseph Brothers were prominent California Gold Rush jewelers known for commissioning small-denomination gold coins as early as 1852. This token represents a rare example of their advertising efforts, issued after their move from 175 Clay Street to 149 Montgomery Street. The token's rarity is noted, with only a few specimens known to exist. The description is based on information provided by a numismatic expert.

Associated People/Businesses

• JOSEPH BROTHERS

Geography

No geographic information available.

Subjects

• Jewelry
• Numismatics

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box 12, Folder 10