3015

Joseph Brothers Store Card Token (Gold Rush Jeweler) (San Francisco, California)

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money / Exonumia - Tokens Start Price:375.00 USD Estimated At:750.00 - 1,500.00 USD
Joseph Brothers Store Card Token (Gold Rush Jeweler) (San Francisco, California)
If you want to view an enlarged image, click on the thumbnail image in the lower left of the main image.
You can download a higher resolution image by clicking on the title below the enlarged image.
You can request extra images to be added by contacting HWAC at uwe@fhwac.com or by calling 775-851-1859
Obv.: Joseph Brothers / of Liverpool Eng. / watch makers/ jewelers opticians/ general importers / 149 Montgomery St. / San Francisco, Cal.; rev.: cheapest house/ in California for / good watches /diamonds / jewelry/ silverware cutlery &c. Br., 29mm. The Joseph Brothers were one of the many California Gold Rush jewelers. They are one of only a very few who issued coins or storecards during the 1850’s. In fact, Joseph Brothers were among a handful of San Francisco merchants who commissioned to have California small denomination gold coined as early as 1852. All are exceedingly rare. This storecard was made in the late 1850’s, after the firm moved from 175 Clay Street to 149 Montgomery Street. Here, they were located among the coiners and assayers so it is no surprise they issued their own coins for advertising. They did not follow in the footsteps of another famous Gold Rush jeweler, John L. Moffat, whose gold coins and ingots are now legendary. During our pursuit of the finest pioneer minor coinage over the past two years, we were able to acquire three specimens. [FH] City: San Francisco State: California Date: c.1850 hwac# 22208