There are many examples of alternative, token-based methods of facilitating closed economies in a specific institution or market. The motivation was frequently one of security, with the use of tokens instead of money reducing illegal temptation due to the restrictive options of where the tokens could be later used. The use of gambling chips in casinos is perhaps the best example of an environment where real cash would be in jeopardy, and has antecedents in the imitation George III 'spade' guineas (twenty-one shilling gold coins) used by gamblers in the 18th century. At the other end of the spectrum bread and milk tokens of 1920s to 1950s Australia ensured these basic necessities were able to be bought. The tokens would be purchased on pay-day prior to the dissolute habits of harsh times that gambled or drank the household budget away, and then exchanged with milk and bread suppliers throughout the week to feed the family.

This shilling token from the Officer's Mess of the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces illustrates use at a hospital - another type of venue that commonly hosted a token-based system as an alternative to cash for internal transactions. The 2nd Australian General Hospital was raised in World War II and was sent to the Middle East in 1940 but because of the denomination we can safely assume that the tokens were produced and used in Australia after the 2/2nd AGH returned to Australia in 1942. Initially the 2/2nd AGH was at Watten in Queensland in tented accommodation but after a cyclone they transferred to Rocky Creek in the Atherton Tablelands. This area was capable of taking two divisions calling for two general hospitals and here the 2/2nd and 2/6th AGH¹s were stationed. The 2/2nd probably had 1200 beds.

Paul Donnelly
Curator, decorative arts & design
January 2008

Refs: Personal communication with the donor and Mr John Yarwood

Produced by an unknown maker during, or immediately after, WWII.

The donor says this was an example found among 100 others at a garage sale in Adelaide consisting of approx 50 shillings in (1/-) and a mixed balance of 50 other denominations including 1d, 3d, 6d, and, 2/-.

The colours for each are:

Reverse: 1D
Plastic, Red or Green, round 24mm

As above but 3D on the reverse and is of White plastic.

As above but 6D on the reverse and is of light Blue plastic.

As above but 1/- on the reverse and is of Yellow plastic.

As above but 2/- on the reverse and is of Red plastic.

Token, 1 shilling, Australian Commonwealth Military Forces, Officers' Mess, 2nd Australian / General Hospital, plastic, maker unknown, Australia, c. 1945

A yellow circular token stamped in relief with text and image. Stamped on obverse is 'OFFICERS MESS / AUSTRALIAN COMMONWEALTH / MILITARY FORCES / 2nd AUSTRALIAN / GENERAL HOSPITAL' and an image of the badge of Australian Commonwealth military forces. Stamped on reverse: '1/-'.

Made: 1940 - 1950

Printed on both sides.

2008/67/1

1940 - 1950

1 mm

24 mm