1907 EMPLOYEE STAR BADGE & ICC HOTEL SPOON PANAMA CANAL

TODAYS ITEM FOR AUCTION IS: an unusual pair of items that pertain to the building of the Panama Canal, one of the wonders of the modern world, that lowered time between the east and west coasts of the Americas for shipping, and trade. This star shaped badge is the earliest type badge known for use by Employees mentioned as early as Sept 1907 in a circular by the Governor. These were employee ID checks issued to all Isthmian Canal Commision employees. They helped control access to ICC businesses and buildings and also was needed to get their pay. These star checks were to be turned in by January 19, 1909 when a new round check was issued. The number of this piece is 36620, it is holed as issued and reads Isthmian Canal Commission. According to figures on the internet there are 26 pieces known to be in collectors hands and 2 that were sold to ICC Souvenir Co. So the population is quite small. Very nice condition, 2" point to point.

Also in the same lot we have an original spoon that is engraved on the top of the spoon ICC Hotel. Flowers go down the lenght of the spoon. In the bowl it reads, "original spoon has bee used by the Panama Canal Builders I.C.C. Hotel, Isthmian Canal Commission Hotel Panama. Back has florals and The Adams Mfg. Co. 5 7/8 inches in length. EX condition.