© ADTokens
© ADTokens
½ Penny - J. Roy Montreal token ND
1837 year| Copper | 7.7 g | 27.5 mm |
| Issuer | Lower Canada (Canadian provinces) |
|---|---|
| Type | Token |
| Year | 1837 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 7.7 g |
| Diameter | 27.5 mm |
| Thickness | 2.0 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#84044 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Value surrounded by wreath with cherry leaves to left and palm leaves to right, lettering top and bottom.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
JH ROY
UN SOU
MONTREAL
Edge
Plain
Comment
Diameter: 27.1 - 28.0 mmLC-20A1 - Thick flan; Weight: 8.9 - 9.2 g, Thickness: 2.1 - 2.3 mm
LC-20A2 - Thin flan; Weight: 6.2 - 6.8 g, Thickness: 1.7 - 1.9 mm
Joseph Roy, a dry goods merchant issued tokens in September 1837, often thought to be by Jean - Marie Arnault. The coins were shipped to Canada in mixed weights, even though it was specified 51 to the £ making it the same as the bank tokens. Le Populaire condemned the lightweight tokens. Roy tried again to produce coins of sound weight but eventually cancelled his order.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the J. Roy Montreal token is that it was used as a form of currency in Lower Canada (now Quebec) during a time when there was a shortage of official currency. The token was issued by a private individual, J. Roy, and was accepted as legal tender by many merchants in the area. This highlights the resourcefulness and resilience of people in the face of economic challenges, and how alternative forms of currency can emerge in times of need.
