1820 North West Company Token. W-9250. Rarity-4. Brass. Fine Details--Excessive Corrosion (PCGS).Pierced for suspension, presumably as issued. Uniformly porous surfaces are typical of the type, although both sides retain bold outline detail to all devices save for those affected by the piercing. Toned in a blend of charcoal, russet and antique gold. The North West Company was one of the most significant companies involved in the North American fur trade during the 18th and 19th centuries. Founded in Montreal in 1779, it grew to be the biggest competitor to the Hudson Bay Company. This token was issued in 1820, valued at one beaver pelt. The following year the company merged with and into Hudson Bay Company. The tokens are believed to have been struck in Birmingham, England, by John Walker & Co for the Canadian and American market. Normally, these tokens are found very well worn and often corroded from having been unearthed in the region of the Lower Columbia River and Umpqua River valleys in Oregon. Here is a chance to buy a piece of Old Northwest history.From the Collection of Larry L. Terrell.
