Explore Canadian Trade Dollar Tokens
This year has been an exciting one so far in the world of coin collecting, both here in Canada and around the world. Among the many Canadian coins for sale are various trade dollar tokens. Trade dollar tokens are coin-like mementos that can be exchanged at local shops for face value, just as you would use a monetary coin or bill. They are usually issued by municipal governments or sponsored by non-profit organizations in the area where they circulate. The value of a token depends on many factors, including its quality and rarity.
History Behind Trade Dollar Tokens
Tokens have circulated in various countries for decades, usually for use at only a specific place of business or in a particular government region. These pieces were often made of cheaper and more readily available metals than traditional coins, especially in times of war or economic hardship. In the United States, for example, trade dollars developed as a response to mining and the subsequent decline in the value of silver in the 1860s.
In Canada, local trade dollars began to be issued in the province of Ontario during the late 1950s. Shortly after that, the concept spread to other regions of the country, where various other cities and municipalities produced the items. The two main objectives of their release were to assist with fundraising efforts in the local area and to draw attention to remote parts of the country. They also gave coin enthusiasts something new to collect. Some institutions that produced these items include the Royal Canadian Mint, the Sherritt Mint in Alberta, the Lombardo Mint in Quebec, and the Johnson Matthey Mint in Ontario.
Uses for Trade Dollar Tokens
As their name suggests, most Canadian trade tokens for sale were worth $1 when issued. People could redeem them at local shops or keep them as souvenirs; they usually listed an expiry date at some point in the year they were issued. For many coin collectors, the commemorative value and local flair of a token are worth more than the $1 face value. In addition to collectors, history and topography enthusiasts may find them especially appealing. The tokens that end up in the jars or binders of collectors are what help support the fundraising efforts of local non-profit organizations.
Types of Trade Tokens for Sale
Some of the different types of trade tokens that you can purchase include:
- The Manitoulin Island Haweater Dollar was produced from 1969 to around 2007. This token illustrates the life and beauty of Manitoulin Island, Ontario.
- The Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Dollar is a 1974 token that celebrates the traditional German festival of Oktoberfest. This coin shows a Bavarian couple dancing and typical Oktoberfest foods such as sausage and beer. Many more have been produced in subsequent years.
- Canadian Tire Limited Edition Trade Dollar Tokens, which portray activities such as playing ice hockey, ice skating, and sledding.
- The Northern Ontario Dollar Trade Token was produced in 1980 to increase visibility and tourism among the over 60 municipalities in this remote region.
These and many more dollar tokens depict social life, community events, and the local environment of cities and towns across Canada.
The Future of Trade Dollar Tokens
The year 1984 saw the largest manufacture of trade dollar tokens in Canada. The production of these items started to dwindle in the 1990s as a result of inflation. However, like with anything that phases out, there is a chance that dollar tokens will be restored to their previous acme in the future. For now, collectors are greatly enjoying trading and purchasing previously minted tokens.
If you are interested in obtaining a unique piece of Canadian history and culture, contact Colonial Acres Coins and inquire about our trade dollar tokens available for sale. Our knowledgeable coin experts can answer all your questions, and we guarantee to give you excellent quality at the best possible price.