1832-44 Token HT-441, Beck's Public Baths VA, BN MS(PCGS#77109)

Spring 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

1521

等级

XF45BN

价格

19,404

详细说明

28.5 mm. Medallic alignment. Richly original surfaces are boldly toned in a blend of steely-copper and deep rose-brown. A hairline scratch in the lower reverse field is noted for accuracy, but otherwise both sides are smooth and well composed apart from a few light, ancient carbon deposits that are of no concern at the assigned grade level.<p>In the period from about 1832 to 1844, when Charles Beck distributed his Beck's Public Baths tokens in Richmond, Virginia, bathing was an occasional experience at best. Houses did not have indoor plumbing, and for most people in the city the closest thing to a bath was wiping with a soapy wet cloth. Across the country, some academies and boarding schools made it an offense to bathe in the colder months, the practice being deemed unhealthy.<p>For those who desired to bathe, public baths were operated in most of the larger cities. Under the listing for W.A. Handy of Providence, Rhode Island, it is noted that City Baths in 1834 occupied the premises earlier used by Handy for his tailoring and clothing business. Records show that in 1832, Charles Beck was a confectioner and the operator of a bathing facility. The baths were in operation until at least 1844. These tokens, about the size of a quarter dollar, may have circulated locally as currency, or, more likely, they were used as admission checks. The dies are by James Bale or Bale & Smith of New York City.<p>With its somewhat risqué depiction of a nude woman, this token is a favorite today, just as it was with collectors of the mid-19th century.