Token

The token has embossed text that reads, "MISSOURI STATE PENITENTIARY," with the signature "J.M. Sanders" and the word "WARDEN" beneath it. Surrounding the central text, the words "FOR USE OF INMATES ONLY" and "JEFFERSON CITY" are arranged in a circular fashion along the edge of the token. The token appears to be well-worn, with a few small scratches and slight discolorations, suggesting it has been handled frequently or has aged over time. Such tokens were likely used as a form of internal currency or identification within the prison system, reflecting a historical context from the era when this penitentiary was operational. The presence of the warden's name indicates it might have been issued or authorized under his tenure, adding a personal historical reference to the artifact.