Colonial tokens were small, often handmade coins used in the American colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries. They served as a form of currency when official coins were scarce. These tokens were typically made from materials like wood, brass, or copper and often featured local symbols or inscriptions. Many colonial tokens were issued by merchants or local governments to facilitate trade and commerce. They were not standardized and varied widely in design and value. Some tokens were later collected as historical artifacts, reflecting the economic conditions of the time and the reliance on alternative currency systems in the absence of a central mint.