1766 Theatre Token Granting Unlimited Access Sells for £8,600

A theatre token from 1766, which provides its owner with unlimited entry to performances, has been sold at auction for more than £8,000. This item is one of 50 tokens originally minted and distributed to the first 50 shareholders of the Bristol Old Vic theatre, who contributed to its construction between 1764 and 1766. The rare silver coin was acquired for a hammer price of £8,600 at Auctioneum in Bath on Thursday. The local buyer, who has chosen to remain anonymous, informed auctioneers that he is an avid theatregoer and intends to use the token “at every opportunity”. The inscription on the token reads: “The proprietor of this ticket is entitled to the sight of every performance to be exhibited in this house.” The reverse side states: “King Street Bristol Theatre, May 30, 1766.” Another token from the same series was sold for £9,200 at a Wiltshire auction house last year. At that time, the Bristol Old Vic confirmed that the token would still be valid for use, though not for touring shows. Auctioneer Andrew Stowe commented: “It’s been quite remarkable, we’ve actually had interest from all over the world. “Of course though, it belongs in Bristol, and we’ve had our most interest from Bristol collectors. So it’s really nice that it sold to a Bristol collector. “Apparently he’s going to go and use it at every opportunity he gets.”