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Subject: Seattle (Wash.) -- Economic conditions

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Post-Civil War Trade Token: Wiseman, Seattle, WashingtonPost-Civil War Trade Token: Wiseman, Seattle, Washington

Brass trade token from Seattle, Washington, circa 1885. The token features the inscription "WISEMAN...Seattle, Washington...5 CENTS" and the address "4334 UNIVERSITY WAY". This token is indicative of the post-Civil War era, when privately issued tokens were used as a form of currency due to a shortage of government-issued coinage. The token's design and inscription provide insights into the commercial activity and business practices in Seattle during this period. It's part of the larger phenomenon of privately issued currency during economic instability.