AN unusual token is causing a Redditch historian a problem - which he hopes someone out there can help him with.

Alan Foxall, of Redditch Pictorial History Society and author of Old Redditch Pubs, specialises in the history of old pub tokens which used to be issued by licensees in the 19th century.

But he has been flummoxed by a recently acquired silver pub token from the Fox Inn in Edward Street which was worth two shillings, far more than the normal three pence.

Mr Foxall said: "This one has been machine engraved, presumably done locally in a Redditch factory tool-room.

"The words Fox Inn Redditch would indicate its use as a pub token, of which there are many known for use in local pubs in Victorian and Edwardian times.

"The initials GJS confirm this as George Joseph Savery was the licensee of the Fox Inn from 1892 to 1897.

"But most pub tokens were brass with a usual value of 3d reflecting the price of a pint in those times.

"They were usually minted, not engraved, and silver ones are virtually unknown."

Anyone who has any information about the origin of the unusual token or others like it can call Mr Foxall on 543369.