© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
½ Penny / 1 Sou City Bank
1837 year| Copper | 12.08 g | 27.0 mm |
| Issuer | Lower Canada (Canadian provinces) |
|---|---|
| Issuing bank | City Bank |
| Type | Token |
| Year | 1837 |
| Value | 1 Sou = ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 12.08 g |
| Diameter | 27.0 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#99282 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Value and date surrounded by wreath with cherry leaves to right and palm leaves to left, lettering top and bottom.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
PRO BONO PUBLICO
1/2
PENNY
TOKEN
1837
MONTREAL
Engraver: Jean-Marie Arnault
Edge
Plain
Comment
Weight: N/ADiameter: 26.9- 27.1mm
The City Bank was organized in 1833 for the benefit of business men denied the services of the Bank of Montreal due to their political views. In 1873, this prosperous bank suffered a severe strain owing to an unfavourable court decision. In 1876, they merged with Royal Canadian Bank to become the Consolidated Bank of Canada and collapsed during the financial depression of 1879.
UNIQUE - Bank of Canada Collection
Electrotype reproductions exist.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny / 1 Sou (City Bank) 1837 from Lower Canada (Canadian provinces) made of Copper weighing 12.08 g is that it was used as a form of currency in the Canadian provinces during a time when there was a shortage of official currency. This coin was issued by the City Bank in 1837 and was valued at half a penny or one sou, which was a fraction of the value of a full penny. Despite its low value, this coin played an important role in the economy of the time and was widely used in everyday transactions. Today, it is a rare and valuable collector's item, providing a unique glimpse into the economic history of Canada.
