© Noble Numismatics Pty Ltd
© Noble Numismatics Pty Ltd
½ 'Penny' Griqua Town ND
| Copper | 6.2 g | 24.86 mm |
| Issuer | Griquatown (South Africa (pre-Union)) |
|---|---|
| Type | Token |
| Years | 1814-1816 |
| Value | ½ 'Penny' (0.005) |
| Currency | Griqua Town Coinage (1814-1816) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 6.2 g |
| Diameter | 24.86 mm |
| Thickness | 1.46 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-07 |
| Numista | N#105436 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Denomination centrally with legend above and below
Script: Latin
Lettering:
GRIQUA
1/2
TOWN (inverted)
Engraver: Thomas Halliday
Edge
Reeded almost vertically
Comment
These coins were first used by the Griqua people in the Klaarwater district near Kimberley and did not circulate for more than two years before being withdrawn and smelted. This is thought to be the first series of coins minted for, and used by a South African people.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token ½ 'Penny' (Griqua Town) ND (1814-1816) from Griquatown (South Africa (pre-Union)) made of Copper weighing 6.2 g is that it was used as a form of currency in the early 19th century in a region that was then known as Griqualand West, which is now part of South Africa's Northern Cape province. The coin was minted by the Griqua people, who were a group of mixed-race people who had settled in the area after being expelled from the Cape Colony. The coin's design features a simple image of a lion on one side and a wreath on the other, and it was likely used for everyday transactions in the community. Despite its small size and relatively low value, the coin is now considered a rare and valuable collector's item, with some examples selling for thousands of dollars at auction.
