Badge Overview
The metal badge features the date 1916 at the top along with Board of Trade and Chicago at the center. It is badge #161. The back ground features a large "Y". The "Y" Background: This is a Chicago Municipal Device, an iconic symbol representing the three branches of the Chicago River (North, South, and Main) meeting at Wolf Point. It was officially adopted by the City Council in 1917, though it was used unofficially by Chicago organizations and businesses for decades prior.
Historical Significance
Badges issued by the CBOT date back to as early as the 1870s, serving as symbolic proof of eligibility and access on the trading floor. This 1916 badge captures a pivotal era in Chicago finance, offering a tangible connection to the city’s robust trading history.
Provenance & Context
- Era: 1916 Chicago Board of Trade
- Material: Stamped Metal Pinback
- Dimensions: Approximately 1.5" in diameter
- Badge Number: 161
- Condition: As pictured
