Niagara Falls Bridge Commission Bimetallic Toll Token Appraisal

Niagara Falls Bridge Commission Bimetallic Toll Token

This is a circular bimetallic transit token issued by the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission. The token's design mimics the construction of a Canadian two-dollar coin (toonie), featuring a central bronze-colored plug (likely brass or copper-nickel-zinc) surrounded by a silver-toned outer ring (likely nickel-plated steel or cupro-nickel). The obverse shown features an embossed image of the Rainbow Bridge spanning the Niagara River gorge, situated above a stylized depiction of the waterfall. The outer ring is inscribed with 'NIAGARA FALLS' in the upper arc and 'BRIDGE COMMISSION' in the lower arc. The coin shows signs of circulation wear, including surface scratches, edge nicks, and significant oxidation or tarnish on the central brass core, resulting in a dull, brownish-orange patina. The striking quality is consistent with mass-produced industrial tokens, intended for high-volume use. These tokens were historically used for toll crossing between the USA and Canada and date roughly from the late 1990s to the 2010s before electronic tolling became the standard.