I have been collecting Mardi Gras doubloons most of my life and about 5 years ago I started selling some of them on Ebay. Many people over the years have asked me about the history of doubloons and how they were made, so I did a little research and found this great information about a famous local doubloon maker.
H. Alvin Sharpe is the father of the doubloon. In 1959 H. Alvin Sharpe presented to the Captian of the REX organization an idea for a new Mardi Gras throw which would be a safe and attractive momento of the King of Carnival's reign. REX gave Sharpe the go-ahead to strike a " Carnival doubloon," and thats how the doubloon was born.
If the initials " H.A.S.," are inscribed on a coin, you will be guaranteed Superior workmanship. Alvin Sharpe was the master of the lost art of the " intaglio cut die" process. This is a painstaking method of engraving by hand which is an art form that freezes history in metal. A very large portion of all the doubloons I sell were designed by Sharpe. This same process has been taken over by almost all of the carnival organizations and many of the doubloons have the initials or the name of the artist engraved in them.
Since REX introduced it's famous doubloon in 1960, that changed the face of Mardi Gras, not only did every carnival organization follow the lead of REX, but doubloons were struck for every occasion, from grocery store openings to political races. I have hundreds of doubloons in my auctions and store which have many different types of themes from Carnival Clubs to political and Disney themes. I am certian that you will find at least one or more that you can add to your carnival memoribilia. If you have any questions about doubloons or any of my auctions please feel free to email me. I check my email daily.
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