Gaming piece, spade guinea, brass, one of a type issued during the latter part of the 19th and in the early 20th century.

Gaming piece, spade guinea, brass, one of a type issued during the latter part of the 19th and in the early 20th century.

Imitation 'spade guinea'

Late 19th - early 20th century

Real spade guineas were struck in gold in the reign of George III between 1787 and 1799. A great many imitations in brass were produced mostly during the 19th century in Birmingham and were used as counters for games. Some, such as this example, are pierced and have loops added whereby they could be hung on the heavy watch-chains favoured at this period.

Gaming piece, spade guinea, brass, one of a type issued during the latter part of the 19th and in the early 20th century.