State of Washington Sales Tax Token Value Guide

Vintage Tax Commission Sales Tax Token State of Washington ... — State of Washington Sales Tax Token

Estimated Value

$4 – $4

Period: 1935-1951
Origin: United States
Materials: Aluminum
Category: Sales tax token

The State of Washington Sales Tax Token is a fascinating relic of the Great Depression, minted to facilitate fractional tax payments on small purchases when the 2% sales tax was introduced. These aluminum pieces represent a unique period in American numismatic history when states issued their own currency to bridge the gap for transactions as small as two-tenths of a cent.

What Is State of Washington Sales Tax Token Worth?

The typical price range for State of Washington Sales Tax Token is $4 - $4 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

Surface preservation is key, as aluminum is a soft metal prone to scratches, pitting, and oxidation over time.
The presence of original mint luster can significantly increase the desirability for collectors compared to circulated examples.
While most are valued between $4.00 and $4.40, any unique striking errors or variations in the center hole alignment can impact the price.
Overall legibility of the embossed text, which often wears down due to the metal's durability limitations.

How to Identify State of Washington Sales Tax Token?

Look for the distinct circular aluminum composition featuring a precision-cut center hole.
Verify the embossed lettering which typically denotes 'State of Washington' and 'Tax Token' on the surface.
Check for the lightweight, thin profile characteristic of the 1935-1951 production era.
Confirm the absence of a denomination, as these were intended specifically for fractional tax rather than standard cent values.

History of State of Washington Sales Tax Token

Introduced during the Great Depression, tax tokens were issued by several states to allow consumers to pay fractional sales tax on small purchases. In Washington, the 2% sales tax meant that a 10-cent purchase required a tax of two-tenths of a cent. Since no such U.S. currency existed, these tokens were minted to bridge the gap. They were officially discontinued in 1951.