© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
1 Beaver Pelt -North West Company
1820 year| Copper | 9.4 g | 29 mm |
| Location | Canadian provinces (Canada) |
|---|---|
| Type | Trade tokens › Business tokens |
| Year | 1820 |
| Value | 1 Beaver Pelt |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 9.4 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round with a round hole |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-11-14 |
| Numista | N#275983 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Beaver right.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
NORTH WEST
COMPANY
Edge
Reeded
Comment
Breen-1084, W-9252, High R.61820 TOKEN North West Company Token, Copper, VF25 PCGS. Breen-1084, W-9252, High R.6. Die alignment: 350°. A splendid example of a rare copper striking of this important token of the Pacific Northwest fur trade. While the North West Company tokens were well-produced, they were subject to extensive circulation and are usually encountered with signs of burial including heavy surface oxidation. This piece bears smooth, problem-free surfaces, and its circulation was gentle, leaving it free of distracting marks. These tokens were generally struck in brass, with copper examples being far more rare. Chestnut-brown patina predominates, with the raised areas being a softer tan. The level of detail on the bust of George IV is notable, giving him a warmth that is usually lacking in these tokens. It is the reverse, however, that makes these pieces truly iconic, and the beaver device is just exceptional, being fully rendered, distinct and seemingly three-dimensional. Holed for suspension, as issued. Population: 1 in 25, 2 finer (10/17).
