estateRUTH.

Identification

Vintage Brass Heraldic Lion Rampant Token or Medallion

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

The item is a coin-like object featuring a classic heraldic motif (lion rampant with crown) on the obverse and a geometric, engine-turned wavy pattern on the reverse.

Story

This piece strongly resembles 19th-century German 'Spiel Marke' or gaming counters, which were mass-produced in manufacturing hubs like Nuremberg. They were used extensively across Europe and America for card games and gambling. The heraldic lion rampant is a classic motif used by makers to mimic the appearance of official European coinage without violating counterfeiting laws. The market for generic 19th-century brass gaming tokens is a niche but active subset of exonumia.

Maker / Origin

Unattributed

Condition & Value

The token exhibits heavy, dark patina and noticeable metal wear on the high points of the relief, consistent with extensive use as a gaming counter. The details of the lion and the engine-turned reverse remain clear, which is positive for display.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The market for generic 19th-century brass gaming tokens is a niche but active subset of exonumia. These items are abundant and typically trade as low-value curiosities, historical game pieces, or craft supplies rather than serious numismatic investments. Buyers are primarily found on broad marketplaces like eBay and Etsy rather than specialized coin auctions.

Value Drivers

▲ Clear heraldic lion motif appeals to collectors of vintage game pieces and jewelry makers.

▲ Engine-turned reverse confirms 19th or early 20th-century manufacturing techniques.

▲ Consistent market demand for 'Spiel Marke' tokens establishes a reliable $10+ floor.

Concerns

▼ Lack of specific maker's marks or text prevents attribution to a rare or highly sought-after token issuer.

▼ Heavy patina and metal wear cap the value at the lower end of the collector spectrum.

▼ Unverified diameter and weight prevent exact catalog matching.

Best Venue

List as a fixed-price item on eBay or Etsy, targeting the vintage exonumia or craft supply markets. A Buy-It-Now price of $15 to $18 is appropriate for a steady sale. Do not attempt to clean or polish the token, as removing the original patina generally reduces its appeal to vintage buyers.

Upside Potential

If exact measurements and weight allow this piece to be attributed to a specific, scarce cataloged token variety (such as a rare Lauer issue), the value could push toward the $30-$50 range for a specialized exonumia collector.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 9 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • eBay
    UK QUEEN VICTORIA Keep Your Temper Brass Gaming Token Whist Counter Jeton Unc
    Different subject matter (Queen Victoria gaming token).
    $48
  • Auctionet
    A COLLECTION OF GUINEA TYPE GAMING COUNTER
    Different subject matter (guinea type gaming counters).
    $45
  • eBay
    Queen Anne Brass Gaming Counter Whist Token Cruciform Shields - Anna Dei Gratia
    Different subject matter (Queen Anne, cruciform shields).
    $25
  • Etsy
    Bavaria German Spiel Marke Pendant - Vintage Brass Play Money - Nuremberg Jeton
    Does not mention a lion; different specific token.
    $22
  • eBay
    FRANCE Louis XIV. (1643–1715) JETON LOUIS ARMIS NUNC TOTA XF
    Different era and subject matter (Louis XIV jeton).
    $19
  • PicClick UK / eBay
    1977 The Heraldic Lion collector's token first series No.1 – low mintage of 5000
    Modern 1977 collector's token, different era and market.
    $13
  • Etsy
    Queen Victoria 19th Century Brass Gaming Token Double-Headed Eagle Coat Of Arms Reverse
    Different subject matter (Queen Victoria, double-headed eagle).
    $13
  • eBay UK
    5x George III Brass Gaming Counter Tokens Spade Guinea Coins Lot B34
    Different subject matter (George III spade guinea tokens).
    $8
  • eBay UK
    1896 South Africa 1 Pond Brass Gaming Counter, Imitation Sovereign Kruger
    Different subject matter (Kruger imitation sovereign).
    $8