US Tokens 1833-1900

According to a general definition of a token, it is a metallic substitute for government coinage, or a form of coin-shaped advertising. But a token does not have to be made of metal to be described as a token. For example, some modern types of tokens are made of plastic. Also a token is not always subjected to the rule of being "worth" something to be truly a token - "good for" 5 cents, one ride, one drink, etc.

The diversity of tokens includes various types such as counterstamped coins, currency tokens, membership medals, advertising checks, political tokens, tokens for value, store cards, transportation tokens, tool checks, amusement tokens, indian and post trader tokens, shell and mirror cards, hard rubber cards, military tokens, telephone tokens, prison tokens, political campaign pieces, etc. That is why collecting tokens has become one of the most important cornerstones in numismatics.

source: http://metaldetectingworld.com/06_finds_tokens_index.shtml