Cole's Book Arcade Tokens

[zanadoo_56]

I have bought a few EW Cole tokens in the last few years as I collect them if the sentiment appeals to me, their condition is good or better, and the price is right.

But perhaps Aust token sellers or collectors can explain why the prices have suddenly gone through the roof recently....to a ridiculous degree.  Even allowing for inflation since Dean's original suggested prices, it is becoming surreal.

I might add they don't appear to be selling at these prices. 🙂

[performance_parts_clearance_centre]

Yes, I've noticed that, too! Prices are up around several hundred for some, which seems quite silly. Worth noting that the recent batch of stupidly expensive ones ($1700? Seriously?) are all from the same US seller.

I have a few myself and would like more, but the current asking prices are just plain senseless.

And, as usual, there are idiots in the mix - one seller's asking $70 for one he's listing as "uncirculated", when it has a small hole drilled throiugh the top (which, so far as I'm aware,they didn't have on issue - it was usually done for use on a necklace, etc).

Personally, I'd love a copy of Dean's book - haven't been able to track one down...

[zanadoo_56]

I've got things set up to search for the tokens and there's a listing for auction starting at $50 and described as white metal.  It's 39mm in diameter which means it is aluminium but if the photos are anything to go by I think it too is overpriced for the quality.

Some tokens may have had holes made according to Dean, and these tokens seem to be slightly thicker than the same token with no hole.  But having said that, some tokens have definitely had holes drilled later as the holes aren't as close to the edge of the token.

I am also wary about the pristine condiiton of some of the tokens.  Do you think they might have been re-dipped?  (I am definitely NOT implying anyone selling them has done this).  The tokens are (with the exception of the aluminium ones) only base metal washed or dipped in gilt or nickel plated or whatever and it doesn't take much for some tarnishing to occur.  The very very expesnive token is rated R10 (highest rarity) according to Dean, but still, for EW Cole tokens I'd expect it to sell, on a good day, for maybe half that. 🙂