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1840 Charleston PORTER Slave Hire Badge #785

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Cultures & Ethnicities Start Price:250.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,200.00 USD
1840 Charleston PORTER Slave Hire Badge #785
<B>1840 Charleston PORTER Slave Hire Badge. Number 785.</B></I> A slightly convex diamond-shaped tag with clipped corners and a hole for suspension, 56mm x 57mm. Manufactured by William M. Rouse, a local silversmith. The elements on the obverse are as follows (top to bottom): "*CHARLESTON*" in a crescent-shaped bar punch; "1840" bar punched; "PORTER" in a rectangular bar punch; and an incuse "785" in individual punches. The condition is about fine; the patina is dark, and the punched devices are all a bit weak. <BR><BR>It is estimated that 4191 badges were issued with the 1840 date. The Porter occupation is somewhat rarer than the Servant. Approximately 20% of badges known are of the Porter variety.<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Small Collectibles (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)