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Snapshots from the book 'Maltese Tokens' by Tony Stivala & Jeanette E Stivala Nee McLarty of tokens used in the bars and places of entertainment during the times of the war.

The use of tokens in Malta, instead of the official legal tender coinage issued by the Government, forms part of Exonumia, a term that incorporates all numismatic items made up of various materials, sizes and shapes other than official coins and paper money, used for a variety of reasons.

Top Left: The Silver Horse, known among servicemen as 'The Galvanised Donkey'. It earned its popularity among the patrons by virtue of its entertainers that included Bobby on the piano and a number of drag artistes. The Silver Horse was owned by the McKay Family.

Bottom Left: Dirty Dick's Bar in Strait Street was owned by J.Attard, this bar was frequented by British servicemen but was also popular meeting place for the gay community in Malta.

Top Right: Tokens of the Dirty Dick's Bar.

Bottom Right: Bobby performing at the Queen Elizabeth Bar, in Strait Street Valletta.