© alamir (CC BY-NC-SA)
© alamir (CC BY-NC-SA)
½ Penny Hampshire - West Cowes / Thomas Ayrton
1798 year| Copper | 12 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) |
|---|---|
| Type | Token |
| Year | 1798 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Currency tokens (1798-1816) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 12 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#142815 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 87% |
Reverse
Arms of the town of West Cowes, Isle of Wight
Lettering: (uninscribed)
Engraver: John Gregory Hancock
Edge
Plain with incuse legend
Lettering: PAYABLE AT THOS. AYRTON & CO. . X . X .
Comment
This token was issued by Thomas Ayrton, a linen draper in West Cowes, Isle of Wight. The diesinkers were John Hancock and Arnold, the manufacturer was William Lutwyche. Charles Fox was a member of Parliament and the leader of the opposition. He was an ardent supporter of the French and American revolutions. The Ayrton family are well documented in the Northwood / Cowes area and Thomas Ayrton's profession is given as Mercer.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny (Hampshire - West Cowes / Thomas Ayrton) 1798 from United Kingdom is that it was issued during a time of severe coinage shortages in the late 18th century. The coin was minted by a private individual, Thomas Ayrton, who was a merchant in West Cowes, Hampshire. The coin's design features a simple layout with the denomination "1/2P" on one side and a crowned shield on the other. Despite its humble appearance, this coin is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.
