1917 Heeren Bros Co 50th Anniversary Token

1917 Heeren Bros Co 50th Anniversary Token

3" wide

Picked up this token commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Heeren Bros Co 1867 to 1917. The token has a dark patina, so I have 2 pictures taken under bright led lights to show the details.

Founded in 1867, the family owned business was known for it's high quality work. Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania the company designed and manufactured thousands of tokens, medals, badges and decorations.

BADGES TO THE WORLD
William Heeren invented some interesting items. Including celluiod badges used by streetcar employees on 4 continents. The badges were also used by firemen, police officers and other transportation employees. He also created a process to press flowers that would retain their color and fragrance.

AMERICAN FIRST
They became one of the first American businesses to have trade relations in South America selling their badges. They also sold merchandise to Mexico, Egypt, Portugal and some other countries.

DOCTOR'S NEED SILVER BODY PARTS
Their craftsmanship was so excellent that surgeons commissioned them to produce items such as silver plate skull fragments. Another item was an artificial nose made of silver that he painted to match the patient's skin color.

The story goes on and is very interesting. I will provide a link in the comments section.