© GT Foreman (CC BY-NC)
© GT Foreman (CC BY-NC)
½ Penny Middlesex - London / Chelsea
1795 year| Copper | - | 28 mm |
| Issuer | United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) |
|---|---|
| King | George III (1760-1820) |
| Type | Token |
| Year | 1795 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Conder tokens (1787-1797) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#327371 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
A figure of Hope leaning on an anchor, legend above, date in exergue.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
THE SUPPORT OF OUR ENDEAVOUR
1795
Edge
Milled to right /////
Note: varieties exist
Comment
The issuer is unknown but the token issue might be associated with the Chelsea Military Hospital, home of the 'Chelsea Pensioners'. It may have been issued as a reminder to the nation of the debt owed to the armed forces. The defeated troops from the disastrous Flanders Campaign of 1794 would have just returned, therefore the obverse could have been designed to attract attention to their plight, while the reverse was a reminder that the navy should also not be neglected.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny (Middlesex - London / Chelsea) 1795 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 a company in Chelsea, London, and features an image of a shield with the initials "W.S." on one side and a crown on the other. Despite being made of copper, this token has a relatively high value among collectors today due to its rarity and historical significance.
