1. Preface
2. Introduction: Tokens, a New Theory
* The Myths
* The Pictographic Theory
* Tokens
3. Part One: The Evidence
4. 1. What Are Tokens?
* Types and Subtypes
* Evolution from Plain to Complex Materials
* Manufacture
* The Token Collection under Study
5. 2. Where Tokens Were Handled and Who Used Them
* Types of Settlements
* Distribution within Settlements
* Structures
* Token Clusters
* Containers Holding Tokens
* Associated Assemblages
* Tokens as Funerary Offerings
6. 3.Strings of Tokens and Envelopes
* Strings of Tokens
* Envelopes
7. 4. Impressed Tablets
* Number
* Context
* Chronology
* Description
* The Signs
* Beyond the Impressed Tablets: Pictography
* The Meaning of Signs and Their Corresponding Tokens
* The Place of Impressed Tablets in the Evolution of Writing
8. Part Two: The Interpretation
9. 5. The Evolution of Symbols in Prehistory
* Symbols and Signs
* Lower and Middle Paleolithic Symbols
* Upper Paleolithic and Mesolithic Symbols
* Neolithic Symbols
* A Turning Point in Communication and Data Storage
10. 6. Tokens: The Socioeconomic Implications
* Reckoning Technology and Economy
* Reckoning Technology and Social Organization
11. 7. Counting and the Emergence of Writing
* The Various Modes of Counting
* The Sumerian Philological Evidence
* The Near Eastern Archaeological Data
12. 8. Conclusions: Tokens, Their Role in Prehistory and Their Contribution to
Archaeology
* Economy
* Political Structure
* Mathematics
* Communication
13. Part Three: The Artifacts
* Cones
* Spheres
* Disks
* Cylinders
* Tetrahedrons
* Ovoids
* Quadrangles
* Triangles
* Biconoids
* Paraboloids
* Bent Coils
* Ovals/Rhomboids
* Vessels
* Tools
* Animals
* Miscellaneous
14. Notes
15. Glossary
16. Index
