She’s Walking on Wednesday: My Numismatic Journey with Lady Liberty
June 27, 2025My Take on Collectors Universe in 2025: A Coin Collector’s Deep Dive
June 27, 2025As a coin collector who’s always loved the mix of numismatics and precious metals, I’ve recently gotten hooked on 999 silver casino gaming tokens. It’s been a blast! From flea market finds to weighing tokens for their silver content, I’ve picked up some tips I’m eager to pass along to other collectors.
What Are Silver Strike Tokens?
These tokens, often called “Silver Strikes,” are limited-edition pieces you win from slot machines. They first popped up in casinos in 1992. Each one comes in a protective capsule, and they range from small brass tokens to hefty silver ones. For me, the real draw is how they blend casino history with pure silver — it’s a perfect mix for a collector like me.
Denominations and Silver Content Explained
From handling these tokens and doing my homework, I’ve found that the silver content can really vary depending on the denomination. So, you’ve got to know what to look for. Here’s a quick rundown of what I’ve seen:
- $10 tokens: These feature a .999 silver center with a brass ring, weighing about 0.60 troy ounces of silver — but I’ve seen thinner ones with less silver, so I always weigh them to be sure.
- $20 tokens: These have a silver outer ring with gold plating, averaging 0.75 troy ounces of silver — but I’ve noticed some variations, so be careful.
- $40 tokens: These beauties are solid .999 silver, weighing around 1.54 troy ounces for the larger sizes — I weighed unmarked ones like Foxwoods and Grand Casino tokens at 1.5 troy oz, which are likely $40 denominations.
- Other notes: $2 and $3 tokens are brass (no silver), while $7 tokens are all silver at 0.65 troy oz. Always check for markings or weigh them; even unmarked tokens can be valuable if they hit that sweet spot.
Practical Collecting Tips and Market Insights
Here’s what I’ve learned from chasing these tokens that might help you:
Hit flea markets, estate sales, or online auctions — I once scored a lot including Wild Bill Hickok and Riviera tokens for just $60! Always weigh your finds; a simple scale reveals the silver weight, which drives the market value. For example, a $40 token might sell for $50-$100 based on silver prices and rarity.
Check for mint marks like “S” (Sunshine Mint) or “RWM” (Roger Williams Mint) — they can tell you about origin and desirability. Condition matters too; tokens in original capsules or with minimal wear fetch better prices. Watch for rare Vegas casinos like Bellagio or MGM Grand, and be wary of newer clad versions — stick to verified .999 silver.
Why I’m Hooked on These Tokens
What I love most is the thrill of the hunt — like finding that Foxwoods token weighing 1.5 troy oz and realizing it’s a hidden gem. Hearing stories of folks winning them straight from Harrah’s machines adds extra excitement to stacking silver. To me, they’re more than bullion; they’re bits of casino history that turn collecting into a high-stakes adventure. Whether you’re into coins, precious metals, or gaming memorabilia, Silver Strike tokens are a fun way to add something different to your collection.