1834 Servant No. 520
Approximate Current Value: $2,750
History, Information, and Value of Charleston 520 Servant 1834 Slave Hire Badge
Value of Charleston 520 Servant 1834 Slave Hire Badge
This large and imposing badge was to be worn by all registered slaves after being purchased by tax-paying owners. The tag was produced in Charleston by John J. Lafar, who served as the City Marshall. All badges created by Lafar were left without a signature. This badge was punched at the top to be hung around a neck or a chain.
The obverse of the token reads, Charleston 520 Servant 1834. The obverse of the Hire Badge shows the position, location, and the slave’s individual number. The backs of all badges are blank.
Slave Hire Badges can be worth a great deal. However, be cautious of fakes and reproductions. The market is flooded with these since they are so popular. To have your badge authenticated, please contact one of our experts and they would be happy to assist you.