Vintage Metal Medal TOTAL 1961 Old Bee Badge Token Retro

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description: This round, golden-hued metal medal features a central relief depicting a stylized bee. The inscription "RELAIS DE TOTAL" is clearly visible in an arc at the top, while the year "1961" appears at the bottom. The piece is struck on one side, with no visible decoration on the edge or back (not visible in the photo). The background of the medal has a smooth, slightly satin finish, with a uniform patina typical of vintage metal objects.

The bee motif, a symbolic emblem often associated with energy and industry, covers most of the surface. The legible raised lettering offers a subtle contrast with the rest of the medal. The object is placed on a bright yellow fabric, which highlights its metallic reflections under grazing light.

The graphic style, finish, and the date "1961" suggest it was manufactured in the early 1960s, characteristic of promotional medals and tokens distributed by major French oil companies of that period. The TOTAL brand, well-known in the energy sector, is an additional clue to the object's professional origin.

The visible side shows no hole or apparent ring, suggesting its use as a commemorative medal, event badge, or promotional token, rather than a wearable medal. The overall condition appears good, with slight signs of wear or micro-scratches visible from certain angles, but no major apparent defects on the photographed surface.

Condition: Used item, sold as is. Shows a patina and very subtle signs of wear consistent with its age, visible in the photo. No chips or structural defects visible on the face shown.

Did you know? In 1961, Total regularly launched promotional campaigns and roadside relays to retain its motorist customers, distributing medals, badges, and tokens during events or visits to its service stations. The bee was then a symbolic motif for several brands related to roads and energy performance.

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