New Orleans Mardi Gras Doubloon (Krewe of Bacchus)
Country of Origin: United States, New Orleans (Private Issue)
Year of Issue: 1982
Denomination: No face value (Souvenir Doubloon)
Composition: Anodized Aluminum (Bronze/Golden color)
Brief Description
A golden-colored aluminum Mardi Gras doubloon featuring a parade theme on the obverse and the Krewe of Bacchus logo on the reverse.
Historical Significance
This is a 'throw' from a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans. The Krewe of Bacchus, founded in 1968, is one of the 'Super Krewes' known for its massive floats and celebrity Grand Marshals. These tokens are highly collectible souvenirs of the city's carnival culture.
Estimated Value
$1.00 - $3.00 (Common souvenir value)
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free flip or sleeve. Avoid rubbing the surface, as the anodized color coating on aluminum can scratch easily, revealing the silver-colored metal beneath.
Mint Mark
None (Privately struck)
Mintage & Rarity
High mintage (Common); thousands of these are produced annually for parade throws.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 3.5g - 4g; ~38mm diameter
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Uncirculated (Likely as thrown/distributed)
Obverse (Front)
Features the 1982 parade theme 'American Heroines' with a montage of a locomotive, a riverboat, a stagecoach, and a large central star. The year 1982 is at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
Depicts the profile of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, drinking from a goblet. Inscribed 'BACCHUS', 'MARDI GRAS - NEW ORLEANS', and '1968' (the founding year of the Krewe).
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition of the anodized finish and the specific interest of collectors in a particular year or Krewe. Aluminum doubloons are the most common; silver or bronze versions of the same design are much more valuable.
Similar Coins
Similar Mardi Gras doubloons from other Krewes like Rex, Endymion, or Zulu. Distinguished by the specific Krewe name and crest on the reverse.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authenticity is rarely an issue for aluminum versions as they are low-value souvenirs. Look for crisp detail in the strike; poor detail may indicate a lead or cast copy.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Multi-color anodized versions or versions struck in .999 Fine Silver for Krewe members are the primary varieties collectors seek.
Created At: 2026-06-25T03:14:02.683507