AI Appraisal Estimate

This set consists of three circular tokens, each appearing to be struck in a base metal with a silver-colored finish. The middle token is most legible, bearing the inscription '2ND PRESIDENT' and 'JOHN ADAMS' along the perimeter, flanking a portrait in relief. It also features the dates '1797' and '1801', which correspond to Adams's term in office. The bottom token is inscribed with '12TH PRESIDENT' and 'ZACHARY TAYLOR', along with the dates '1849' and '1850'. The top token appears to represent Andrew Jackson, though the text is less clear. These pieces are stylistically consistent with the 'Shell's Mr. President Coin Game' promotional tokens issued by the Shell Oil Company during the late 1960s. The user mentions 'shells me. w reside', which may refer to these promotional Shell oil tokens, although this attribution remains unverified without physical examination of the reverse side or material testing. The metal shows visible surface wear, scratches, and a dulling of the luster, consistent with incidental handling. Because they lack currency denominations and government mint marks, they are categorized as exonumia or commemorative medallions rather than legal tender. Definitive identification as the Shell variety requires verification of the specific manufacturer's mark, such as 'Franklin Mint', which is not visible here.

Based on the images provided, I have examined this set of three presidential tokens. My assessment is a working hypothesis based on visual characteristics consistent with the 1968-1970 'Mr. President Coin Game' promotional items. The owner identifies these as 'shells', which aligns with the style of game premiums issued by the Shell Oil Company. The pieces bear portraits and dates consistent with John Adams and Zachary Taylor, struck in a base metal with a silver-colored finish. Surface wear, scratches, and a dulling luster are evident, suggesting incidental handling. From a photo, I cannot verify the exact metal composition or the specific manufacturer's mark, such as a Franklin Mint 'F' or 'P', which would be required for a more precise classification. The market for these aluminum or brass base-metal tokens is generally high-volume and low-value, as they were produced in the millions. Collector interest is typically driven by nostalgia rather than precious metal content or rarity. If these are confirmed as the common Shell game versions, they generally trade at the lower end of the provided estimate. However, if they were found to be part of a rare silver-composition set (which I cannot determine without physical testing for density and hallmarks), the value would increase significantly. Conversely, as common tokens in circulated condition, the value remains nominal. To confirm this attribution, a physical inspection to verify the reverse side text and weight would be necessary to distinguish them from other presidential medal series produced for schools or collectors. The current estimate reflects the market's standard valuation for unauthenticated promotional exonumia of this era.