Description
Denomination: Trade token farthing
Period: 17th century emergency issue
Date: 1653
Origin: Kent
Condition: AVF. some weak areas as is often the way
Obverse: SAMVELL DALLING OF to edge. lettering to centre D above SA
Reverse: WESTERHAM IN KENT around. two cinquefoil with date between
Size and Weight: 15mm. 0.93g
References: BW 563. Norweb 2768
Features and Provenance: During the 1600’s to 1800’s there were often a shortages of coin of the realm as a result of a dearth of precious metals due to war and the consequent disruption to trade routes. To alleviate this. The Bank of England turned to re-striking foreign coins when the weights were similar. Traders and landowners would also produce their own to act as local currency in exchange for goods or work. Tokens were produced mainly in copper alloy. lead and pewter. They sometimes displayed their name or initials of the issuer. and some have a denomination of halfpenny or penny and a farthing. as per this our example. They must have worked as great advertising too! Mr Samuell Dalling of Westerham. Kent. was a mercer – a trader of textiles.
Condition Summary. This varies with the age of coin and there are grades between
Uncirculated (U). As struck with no traces of wear
Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear. all parts of legend etc present. visible and clear
Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief. all parts of legend etc present. but maybe worn
Fine (F). Wear on the coin and parts of legend etc may be missing or not visible
Historical Irrelevance: In 1653 the city of New York was incorporated albeit under its former name of New Amsterdam. Meanwhile in Westerham. Kent. this token was being exchanged for a flagon of foaming ale. a whole loaf of bread and fresh horses at the Grasshopper On The Green public house. I’m pleased to advise that this fine establishment is still very much alive and well – however a farthing would no longer buy you an individual pork scratching. let alone a bag.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.