© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
½ Penny Britannia and Eagle
1813 year| Copper | 8.8 g | 27.9 mm |
| Issuer | Lower Canada (Canadian provinces) |
|---|---|
| Type | Token |
| Year | 1813 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 8.8 g |
| Diameter | 27.9 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#85109 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 80% |
Reverse
Spread eagle holding x4 arrows and an olive spray.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
HALFPENNY TOKEN
1813
Edge
Engrailed
Comment
Original tokens struck over S.Guppy Bristol tokens are of full weight. Issued by a Boston merchant named Nye who settled in Phillipsburg during 1812.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny (Britannia and Eagle) 1813 from Lower Canada (Canadian provinces) made of Copper weighing 8.8 g is that it was used as a substitute for the official British coinage during a period of currency shortage in the early 19th century. The coin was issued by private companies and individuals, and was accepted as legal tender in the Canadian provinces. Despite its status as a substitute currency, the coin still features the image of Britannia and an eagle, symbolizing the connection to the British Empire. This coin is a unique piece of Canadian numismatic history and a testament to the resourcefulness of the people during a time of economic hardship.
