The Iron Token's Exit: How Monopoly Replaced a Classic with a Cat in 2013

The Iron Was Retired After 78 Years

In 2013, Hasbro made a historic change to Monopoly's iconic token lineup. The flatiron—one of the original eight tokens introduced in 1935—was officially retired and replaced by a cat, chosen through a public voting campaign.

The "Save Your Token" Campaign

Hasbro launched the "Save Your Token" campaign in January and February 2013, inviting fans to vote on Facebook. The contenders included the iron, boot, wheelbarrow, and a new candidate: the cat. The Scottie dog, a perennial favorite, was also in the running but ultimately secured its spot with roughly 28% of the vote. The cat emerged victorious with approximately 31%, while the iron received the fewest votes and was eliminated.

The Original Eight Tokens (1935–2013)

1. Top Hat
2. Thimble
3. Iron ← RETIRED
4. Boot
5. Battleship
6. Racecar
7. Scottie Dog
8. Wheelbarrow

Post-2013 Standard Token Lineup

• Top Hat, Thimble, Boot, Battleship, Racecar, Scottie Dog, Wheelbarrow, Cat

Subsequent Token Shake-Ups

• 2017: Thimble, Boot, and Wheelbarrow were retired in favor of the T-Rex, Rubber Duck, and Penguin.
• 2020s: Editions vary widely; "Token Vote" editions often bring back retired pieces.

Collector Notes

• Pre-2013 sets containing the iron are slightly more collectible.
• Hasbro sold the iron token separately for a limited time.
• Custom 3D-printed iron tokens are common on Etsy and other marketplaces.

The iron had a remarkable 78-year run. The cat has big paws to fill.