The Eagle Clear Lake Brass Trade Tokens, 'Good For 5¢ In Trade'

Story

In the early 1900s, Clear Lake, Iowa, was a bustling resort town where local merchants issued their own brass coinage. These tokens kept customers loyal to 'The Eagle'—likely a lively local saloon or billiard hall—by ensuring their change was spent right back at the counter.

Maker / Origin

While the specific manufacturer of these tokens is unlisted, they were custom-struck by specialized token and medal diesinkers, likely based in Chicago or Cincinnati, who supplied thousands of small-town merchants across the Midwest with personalized trade currency.

Condition & Value

The tokens show a natural, dark aged patina with minor surface dirt and light wear consistent with actual circulation. The lettering remains sharp and fully legible; cleaning them would diminish their historical value and appeal to collectors. Value is driven by regional exonumia collectors who specialize in Iowa merchant tokens.