Token 21 – South-West Africa – C.D.M. – 3 Pounds Token, c. 1920s–1940s

Token 21 – South-West Africa – C.D.M. – 3 Pounds Token, c. 1920s–1940s

Original C.D.M. (Consolidated Diamond Mines) token from South-West Africa, issued for use in connection with the company’s diamond-mining operations.

The token bears “C.D.M.” together with the denomination “3.-”, representing 3 Pounds. C.D.M. tokens formed part of the private token system used by the company in its mining communities and operations.

The Consolidated Diamond Mines of South West Africa was established in 1920 and became the dominant diamond-mining company in the region, operating principally in the Lüderitz and Sperrgebiet areas.

A scarce and historically significant example of private mining-company token currency from South-West Africa, reflecting the importance of the diamond-mining industry to the economic history of the territory.