Western Union token?

[Ace 350]

This says Western Union and in the center it has two hands shaking. What is this and how old is it?

 

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[AU24K]

Other side, please.

Best,

Scott

 

[Ace 350]

There is nothing on the other side. It is badly corroded.

 

[AU24K]

Possibly a snap from clothing?

Best,

Scott

 

[Mackaydon]

These eyes don't see the word "UNION"; back to the eye doc next week.
Don...

 

[AU24K]

These eyes don't see the word "UNION"; back to the eye doc next week.
Don...

Here you go, Don.



Best,

Scott

 

[Mackaydon]

Scott,
Many thanks, that worked.
Your pic saved the cost of the eye doc.
Cheers to you and yours in the New Year !
Don....

 

[Mackaydon]

My guess is the token may commemorate the laying of the Atlantic cable between the USA and England in 1858. The shaking hands was often seen in newspapers of the day signifying that event; as here:

Don....

 

[Ace 350]

Makes sense. I've found an 1858 Flying Eagle one cent in this field too. I have also been finding CW relics too.

 

[nsdq]

Neat find

 

[Bramblefind]

Here is another similar that was posted earlier this year and Creskol IDed it as an early 1900s work clothes button.

http://www.treasurenet.com/forums/what/406069-need-help-2-items-button-vintage-diecast-cars.html

I also found a pic in a book I have (The Complete Book of Buttons, Albert/Kent). It doesn't say anything specific about it - it was included under a common description of a number of work clothes type buttons.