1848 Fruiterer No. 68
Approximate Current Value: $2,000
History, Information, and Value of Charleston 68 Fruiterer 1848 Slave Hire Badge
Value of Charleston 68 Fruiterer 1848 Slave Hire Badge
The Fruiterer tag is likely one of the rarest tags to encounter. This tag is particularly rare because it was the only job that would allow the slave to go into public to sell goods at the market. Most of the goods sold were fruits, but on occasion, the slaves would sell other types of food. Only 4% of the badges produced in 1848 were for Fruiteres. You will notice that the edges have been clipped. This was likely done by the slave master to prevent scratches while wearing the tag.
The obverse of the token reads, Charleston 68 Fruiterer 1848. 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.