RARE 1790 Spade Guinea Gaming Token • Bancroft Bros Birmingham • Victorian Jeton

Description

A Survivor of the High-Stakes Gambling Den Step into a smoky 19th-century London card room. This isn't just a coin; it's a Bancroft Brothers Gaming Token , used as prestige play-money in high-stakes Victorian games like Whist and Loo . While it mimics the 1790 Gold Guinea, it hides a "business card" for the famous Hockley district in Birmingham , once the token-making capital of the world. Key Historical Secrets: The Legal Loophole: Marked 1790 but struck in the late 1800s. By using an "obsolete" date, the Bancroft Brothers legally bypassed the strict counterfeit laws of the era. The "Spade" Legend: Features the distinctive garden-shovel-shaped shield, a miniature brass replica of the Royal Arms representing the King’s dominion over five nations. Industrial Provenance: Proudly marked with "B. BROS" and "HOCKLEY BIRM." —a direct link to the metalworking masters of the Industrial Revolution. Item Specifics Category: Coins & Paper Money > Exonumia > Tokens: Other Type: Gaming Token / Jeton Original Year (on coin): 1790 Actual Era: Victorian (1860-1890) Composition: Brass Manufacturer: Bancroft Brothers, Birmingham Design: George III / Spade Shield Condition Grade: "Circulated / About Very Fine" (AVF) Surface & Luster: The token has its original "bright gilt" (gold-like) finish, with some minor wear as shown in the photos, which is typical for a piece that saw actual use in gambling dens. There is no significant "green rot" (verdigris), which is a major win for the metal's integrity. The Strike (Obverse): King George III’s profile is still remarkably clear. You can see the definition in the laurel wreath on his head and the bridge of the nose. There is "high-point wear" on the cheekbone, but the legend (the text) remains fully legible. The Strike (Reverse): The "Spade" shield is well-preserved. The intricate details inside the four quadrants of the shield are still visible, which is where these tokens usually wear down first. Edge & Rim: The rim is intact with no major "dings" or "bites." This suggests it wasn't dropped frequently on hard surfaces or used as a tool. Key Detail: The "B. BROS" and "HOCKLEY" text—the most important part for your specific variety—is sharp and readable. This is what secures the maximum value. Perfect For: Victorian History Enthusiasts: Those fascinated by the "hidden" history of the British Industrial Revolution and early gambling culture. Steam-Punk & Jewelry Artisans: A beautiful, historically accurate piece for watch chains, brooches, or period-correct costumes. British Numismatists: An essential "gap-filler" for collectors who want the Spade Guinea aesthetic without the $1,000+ price tag of the gold original. Perfect Gift For: The Card Player / Gambler: A symbolic "good luck" charm for modern poker or bridge players. Birmingham Natives: A tangible piece of Hockley heritage from the "City of a Thousand Trades". Young Historians: A perfect introduction to the world of legal loopholes and mid-century metalworking. Bet on a piece of Victorian history. This Bancroft Brothers gaming token is a masterclass in 19th-century ingenuity and style. Whether you're a collector of British history or a fan of Victorian gambling lore, this 1790 'Spade' imitation is a must-have conversation starter. Add to Cart now to claim your stake in the past!