Which ancient civilization pioneered the first documented customer loyalty program using clay tokens that customers could collect and redeem for discounts on future purchases?

Before modern loyalty cards and point systems, ancient civilizations developed sophisticated methods to retain customers and build brand loyalty in their marketplaces. From Phoenician merchant tokens to Roman shopping districts, early civilizations understood the value of customer retention. This trivia question explores how ancient societies implemented early customer loyalty programs that bear surprising similarities to today's retail strategies.

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Mesopotamian merchants in Babylon (circa 2000 BCE) who gave regular customers stamped clay tokens worth future discounts on grain and textiles
Egyptian bazaar vendors in Thebes (circa 1500 BCE) who maintained papyrus records of noble patrons to offer preferential pricing
Greek agora merchants in Athens (circa 500 BCE) who distributed bronze coins to recurring customers that could be exchanged for small gifts
Roman forum shopkeepers (circa 100 CE) who offered inscribed wooden tablets to patrician families that guaranteed priority service