½ Penny (Essex - Chelmsford / J. Jordan) 1794 front ½ Penny (Essex - Chelmsford / J. Jordan) 1794 back
½ Penny (Essex - Chelmsford / J. Jordan) 1794 photo
© Heritage Auctions

½ Penny Essex - Chelmsford / J. Jordan

1794 year
Copper - -
Description
Issuer
United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
Type
Token
Year
1794
Value
½ Penny (1⁄480)
Currency
Conder tokens (1787-1797)
Composition
Copper
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#135829
Rarity index
90%

Reverse

Crown & sceptre above legend and date

Script: Latin

Lettering:
KING
AND
CONSTITUTION
1794

Engraver: William Wyon

Edge

Plain and incuse legend varieties exist

Lettering: PAYABLE AT I. IORDAN DRAPER GOSPORT.

Comment

With thanks to The Provincial Token Coinage of the 18th century:

For Atkins' Nos. 8-8c, see No. 20, Hampshire

Engraver - Wyon.
Manufacturer - Kempson.
Proprietors - Clachar & Co.

William Clachar, Bookseller, Printer, Bookbinder, Distributor of Stamps, Agent to the Sun Fire Insurance office, Appraiser and Auctioneer, at the Medical Warehouse and Public Library.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny (Essex - Chelmsford / J. Jordan) 1794 from United Kingdom is that it was issued during a time of severe coinage shortages in the country. The British government was unable to produce enough coins to meet the demands of the growing economy, leading to the issuance of private tokens like this one. These tokens were issued by private companies and individuals and were accepted as legal tender in local areas. This particular token was issued by J. Jordan in Chelmsford, Essex, and features a unique design that sets it apart from other coins of the time. Despite being made of copper, the Token ½ Penny was still considered a valuable form of currency during this time period.