Token 23 – South-West Africa – C.D.M. – 6d Diamond Mine Token, c. 1920–1950

Token 23 – South-West Africa – C.D.M. – 6d Diamond Mine Token, c. 1920–1950

Original brass C.D.M. (Consolidated Diamond Mines) token from South-West Africa, representing a value of 6 pence (6d).

The token forms part of the C.D.M. series of private mine tokens issued in denominations including 1d, 3d, 6d, 1/-, 2/-, 2/6 and 10/-. These tokens were used in canteens and shops at the company’s diamond-mining operations, providing a private means of payment within the mining communities.

C.D.M. was incorporated in 1920 and became the dominant diamond-mining company in South West Africa, with its operations eventually centred on the southern diamond fields and Oranjemund.

An interesting example of private mining-company token currency from South-West Africa, reflecting the commercial and social history of the region’s diamond-mining communities.