Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an original $1 metal gaming token issued in 1980 by the Silverbird Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. It features the bold Silverbird logo on the reverse and a large stylized dollar sign on the obverse. Tokens like this were used directly in slot machines and at gaming tables during Las Vegas's iconic neon era.
Story
The Silverbird operated under that name for just five short years, from 1976 to 1981, before becoming the Sahara's El Rancho. Because this 1980 token represents one of its final years of operation, it stands as a tangible relic of a vanished Strip legend.
Maker / Origin
The Silverbird Casino occupied the famous property originally known as the Thunderbird Hotel, built in 1948 as the fourth resort on the Las Vegas Strip. Major private mints, including the Franklin Mint, struck high-quality metal tokens for Nevada casinos after silver dollars were phased out of circulation in the late 1960s.
Condition & Value
Displays moderate circulation wear with light surface grime and subtle rim nicks consistent with casino play. Surface patina is typical for handheld nickel-alloy tokens; cleaning is discouraged as it hurts collector value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.