Description: This Brothel Token Uncle Sam Hotel Yuma Arizona Territory All Night Check $3 is a unique piece of Western Americana history. The token is from the United States and is not handmade. Its provenance is not available, but it is sure to be a valuable addition to any collection. The token features a charming design that captures the essence of the Western Americana culture. It is perfect for collectors of Western-themed items or those who appreciate the history of Yuma, Arizona. Add this token to your collection today and own a piece of American history. Is it real? My first question was whether brothel tokens actually existed in America and the answer is “Yes!” One is currently housed at the New York Historical Society. Scholar, Laura Elizabeth Scharding, even noted the myth of brothel tokens not existing in America in her article, “Fat Ann, Baths and Brothels: Sexual Economies of the Wild West.” Scharding explains that brothel tokens were used in the West but due to their rarity, collectors came to assume that brothel tokens did not exist. Scharding discussed the different ways in which brothel tokens were used, but overall it was to ensure that the cash and payment were in the hands of the madams/owners. Tokens were either purchased from the madam/owner orbartender and then given to the sex worker as payment. The sex worker would then return the token(s) to the madam for final payment for their services. Ultimately, brothel tokens were purchased and used in replace of money to ensure that the madame or the brothel owner retained control over the transaction. In addition to being used in replace of money, brothel tokens also acted as advertising tools for the brothels that they were linked to. Similar to other coins, brothel tokens moved through society, passing from person to person, informing individuals of the business on the coin. Fantasy Coins: Although brothel tokens are incredibly rare, there is an abundance of brothel tokens that are available for purchase online that appear to be reproductions or the real thing. Some are quite crude and do not mince words, reading: “Good for One Screw.” The descriptive nature of the brothel token usually indicates that the object is entirely fake and made up, also known as fantasy coins. Fantasy coins are coins that reflect a fabricated history. Fantasy brothel tokens originated in the 1960s. Attracting those who were interested in the Wild West memorabilia. Here is the information, real or fake, it’s a great conversation piece.
Price: 9.99 USD
Location: Richmond, Texas
End Time: 2024-11-25T16:11:24.000Z
Shipping Cost: 3.99 USD
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Item Specifics
Return shipping will be paid by: Seller
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 14 Days
Refund will be given as: Money back or replacement (buyer's choice)
Provenance: Ownership History Not Available
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
Culture: Western Americana
Handmade: No