A teetotum (or T-totum) is a form of spinning top most commonly used for gambling games. It has a polygonal body marked with letters or numbers, which indicate the result of each spin. Usage goes back to (at least) ancient Greeks and Romans, with the popular “put and take” gambling version going back to medieval times. Reference: Wikipedia
Below are some examples and price guides of teetotums including a rare walrus ivory teetotum and a gold “He loves me not” teetotum.
A rare sailor’s walrus ivory teetotum ball, A rare sailor’s walrus ivory teetotum ball, 17th century, carved with a Roman ‘VI’ on one facet only, the remaining with 1-32, 4cm wide Condition Report: Expected cracks and discolouration in the walrus ivory.
Sold for £6,000 at Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers in 2022
TWO NAPOLEONIC PRISONER-OF-WAR CARVED AND PAINTED BONE TEETOTUMS
Early 19th Century
One six-sided, the other twelve-sided.
Lengths 2”.
Sold for US$275 at Eldred’s in 2022
A 9ct gold teetotum / spinner approx 1″ long
Sold for £150 at Claydon Auctioneers Ltd in 2020
