The E-Sylum:  Volume 9, Number 28, July 9, 2006, Article 17

MUNICIPAL TRADE TOKENS

Serge Pelletier writes: "To answer Kerry Rodgers' question:
"How many other countries have allowed [or would be big enough
to allow] one community to produce and circulate such coinage for
such an anniversary?", I need  to first say that these are not
coins but what is referred to as Municipal Trade Tokens (MTTs for
short).  A Municipal Trade Token is defined as a community "coin",
sponsored by a local non-profit organization and given legal
monetary value in a specific area for a limited time by the
appropriate local authority.

MTTs have been issued in The Netherlands since 1935 and have been
issued in other countries such as: Australia, Belgium, Canada,
France, Italy, Sweden and United States.  Canadian MTTs are the
most prevalent these days.  Their tradition go back to 1958 when
the concept was imported from the neighbouring United States.
According to some Secret Service agent, it is illegal to issue
MTTs in the U.S., but I believe it could easily be challenged if
certain rules are followed.  Maui have been issuing their "Trade
Dollars" for years now, without any problems.

The Gazette of Municipal Numismatics covers MTTs as well as medals
issued by various municipalities, mainly in Canada and the U.S.
and sometimes even around the world. (for more info/sample copy:
gazette@eligi.ca)

The Royal Dutch Mint has issued a circulating 5 euro coin to
commemorate the Rembrandt anniversary as well as a gold 10 euro
and a series of silver medals.  An article on all these issues
will be published in the December issue of the ANA's Numismatist."

[We'll look forward to Serge's article. -Editor]

  Wayne Homren, Editor

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