ICE Arcade/Amusement Token (Polar Bear on Ice)
Country of Origin: United States; Manufactured by various token mints (e.g., Hoffman, Osborne)
Year of Issue: Late 20th Century (c. 1980s-2000s)
Denomination: No Cash Value (1 Play)
Composition: Brass
Brief Description
A brass amusement token featuring a polar bear sitting on a block of ice marked 'ICE' on the obverse.
Historical Significance
This is a generic arcade or amusement token produced for 'ICE' (Innovative Concepts in Entertainment), a company famous for arcade games like 'Chexx' bubble hockey. These tokens were used in family entertainment centers to prevent the theft of real currency and to ensure loyalty to specific arcade chains or machines.
Estimated Value
Minimal; $0.10 - $1.00 in typical condition.
Care Instructions
No special care required. If desired, store in a PVC-free flip to prevent corrosion. Do not clean with abrasives as it will strip the brass patina.
Mint Mark
None visible; typically mass-produced in private mints like Hoffman Mint.
Mintage & Rarity
Very high mintage; extremely common.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 5.0g - 5.5g; 25mm (standard quarter size)
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated; shows minor surface spotting and light handling marks but retains full detail.
Obverse (Front)
Centrally located polar bear sitting and looking right, perched on a rectangular block inscribed with 'ICE'. Surround by a beaded border.
Reverse (Back)
The legend 'NO CASH VALUE' in three lines, flanked by decorative scrolls, surrounded by a denticulated (toothed) border.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition and quantity; these are usually sold in bulk lots for gaming or as curiosity items rather than high-value numismatic pieces.
Similar Coins
Often confused with other 'No Cash Value' tokens such as those from Chuck E. Cheese or various car washes.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
As a low-value token, counterfeiting is rare. Genuine tokens have crisp lettering and consistent brass color.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Varies primarily by the manufacturer's specific die design for the polar bear and the style of the 'ICE' font; some exist in different metals like nickel-plated zinc or copper-plated steel for different machines/values.
Created At: 2026-06-23T17:12:48.452263