I've been going through my father's collection from WWii (although there may be some other stuff mixed in) and I have pretty much identified everything, except for this one with a dragon. I'm starting to think it might be a "saloon" token or casino counter, but would still like to know more about it. Does anyone have any ideas?
It is not a coin, as far as I can tell. Where was your father stationed? That may help narrow it down some.
I've seen the same one a few times before. People generally describe it as a casino token, but I have not yet been able to confirm this info or the origin.
So, I am totally new to this, but here are my thoughts. I do a lot of metal detecting/ghost town stuff, and one of the things I always look for are "saloon tokens" (sadly haven't found one YET!, just seen reproductions). Some of which are quite blatant, but basically 1 token was good for 1 night at a house of ill repute. My father joined up with his brothers at 16 (said he was 18), and knowing the old man, I imagine he spent some time in places just like that. The back of the coin looks like a geisha girl to me. But my limited knowledge is very limited to western saloon tokens. (Didn't even realize that tokens are a thing to collect until I went down the numismatic rabbit hole. And now I am fascinated.) Is it possible that it is that type of token? Can anyone recommend a good resource for token identification and collecting? Thanks again for the education. I am learning so much from this site. Husband is starting to wonder if I will ever watch TV with him again.
