© G. Barret
© G. Barret
½ Penny Genuine British Copper
1815 year| Copper | 6.6 g | 25.9 mm |
| Issuer | Nova Scotia (Canadian provinces) |
|---|---|
| Type | Token |
| Year | 1815 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound (1812-1860) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 6.6 g |
| Diameter | 25.9 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | 1817 |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#4543 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 76% |
Reverse
Britannia facing left surrounded by lettering.
Script: Latin
Lettering: GENUINE BRITISH COPPER
Engraver: Thomas Halliday
Edge
Plain
Comment
Weight: 6.1 - 7.1gDiameter: 25.8 - 26.1mm
4 issues exist:
NS-25A1 - Large bust, 8 laurel leaves.
NS-25A2 - Slender bust, 7 laurel leaves.
NS-25A3 - Slender bust, 6 laurel leaves.
NS-25A4 - Small bust, 7 laurel leaves.
An anonymous issue from the peak of token circulation, it stressed the need for pure copper tokens of good weight as opposed to the forgeries which were close to causing the demise of the currency. Minted in England, the first issue is attributed to Thomas Halliday, further issues are thought to be the work of his apprentices.
Interesting fact
The A Token ½ Penny (Genuine British Copper) 1815 from Nova Scotia (Canadian provinces) made of Copper weighing 6.6 g is an interesting coin because it was created during a time when there was a shortage of official currency in Nova Scotia, and private tokens like this one were issued by businesses and individuals to fill the gap. This coin, in particular, was issued by a company called the Halifax Banking Company and features a unique design that includes a sailing ship and a crowned shield with the initials "H.B.C."
