James Madison Presidential Game Coin/Token (Cracker Jack or similar promo)
Country of Origin: United States of America (Private Mintage)
Year of Issue: Circa 1930s
Denomination: None (Game/Educational Token)
Composition: Brass-plated steel or bronze alloy
Brief Description
A small circular bronze-colored token featuring James Madison on the obverse and an eagle over a shield on the reverse.
Historical Significance
These tokens were widely distributed in the mid-20th century as educational premiums or game pieces, most notably by the Cracker Jack company. They were designed to teach children about U.S. Presidents.
Estimated Value
$1-$5 in circulated condition, $10-$20 in high grade
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free flip. Avoid cleaning or using abrasives as it will strip the original finish/patina.
Mint Mark
None (Produced by private manufacturers like Scovill or Osbourne)
Mintage & Rarity
Very high mintage; extremely common collector item
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 3.5g and 25mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Very Good to Fine (visible wear on high points, toning, and surface oxidation)
Obverse (Front)
Bust of James Madison facing left, flanked by his years in office '1809' and '1817'. Legends: 'PRESIDENT, U.S.A.' at top, 'JAMES MADISON' at bottom.
Reverse (Back)
An eagle perched on a shield. Inside the shield is the text 'PRESIDENT 4 COIN'. Five stars are visible on the sides (three left, two right).
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition and the specific series set it belongs to (some variations in metal or reverse design can be rarer).
Similar Coins
The 2007 official US Mint James Madison Presidential Dollar, which is gold-colored and has legal tender value.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
These are not financial coins, so counterfeits are rare; however, check for magnetic properties which can indicate different production batches or base metals.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Varieties exist reflecting different promotional sponsors (e.g., Shell Oil, Cracker Jack, various department stores).
Created At: 2026-06-25T01:47:31.571459