1880 Hawaii Plantation Token. Wailuku Plantation. 1 Real. Medcalf-Russell 2TE-6. EF-45 (PCGS).Charming and superior Choice EF quality for this scarce and conditionally challenging type. Both sides are pleasantly toned, a but of ancient surface build up around some of the devices interrupting an otherwise uniform copper brown appearance. All devices are boldly defined, the surfaces smooth for the type with only a few wispy flan flaws and handling marks scattered about. The Wailuku Plantation on Maui issued tokens for the use of its employees in 1871 and 1880, a common practice for plantations and the railroad on this Hawaiian island. The first manager of this plantation was Edward T. Bailey, who began his term upon its establishment in 1862. In 1877 he sold the plantation to the Wailuku Sugar Co., and by 1880 it employed 160 people and was producing 1,500 tons of sugar cane per year. These tokens were struck on various gauges of copper in the "black smith" shop on the plantation. Many are quite crude, especially compared to the Haiku Plantation tokens of 1882, although the present 1 real piece is both exceptionally well made and of superior preservation. A find for the advanced Hawaiiana specialist that is sure to sell for a premium bid.
