Definition
A small coin-sized metal or plastic disc used as currency in arcade games and amusement venues, allowing players to play games without feeding actual coins into each machine.
Example Usage
I exchanged ten dollars for a roll of arcade tokens at the ticket counter.
Origin
Introduced in the 1970s and 1980s as arcades became mainstream entertainment; tokens prevented coin jams and allowed venues to control play costs.
Fun Fact
Arcade tokens vary in weight, size, and metallurgical composition by venue to prevent counterfeiting and unauthorized use at competing establishments.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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See “arcade token” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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