½ Penny (Middlesex - National Series / Prince of Wales) ND (1787-1797) front ½ Penny (Middlesex - National Series / Prince of Wales) ND (1787-1797) back
½ Penny (Middlesex - National Series / Prince of Wales) ND (1787-1797) photo
© Histo50

½ Penny Middlesex - National Series / Prince of Wales ND

 
Copper 9 g 29 mm
Description
Issuer
United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
Type
Token
Years
1787-1797
Value
½ Penny (1⁄480)
Currency
Conder tokens (1787-1797)
Composition
Copper
Weight
9 g
Diameter
29 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#184172
Rarity index
80%

Reverse

Royal arms with supporters, legend above, denomination below.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
.LONDON AND MIDDLESEX.
HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE
ICH DIEN
HALFPENNY

Translation:
Shame on he who thinks evil of it
I serve

Edge

Incuse legend.

Note: varieties exist.

Lettering: PAYABLE IN LANCASTER LONDON OR BRISTOL

Comment

Similar types exist with the Prince of Wales' crest below the bust (DH#952) or with the bust in right profile (DH#954).

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny (Middlesex - National Series / Prince of Wales) ND (1787-1797) from United Kingdom is that it was issued during a time of currency shortages in the late 18th century. To address this issue, private companies and individuals were allowed to mint coins, known as "tokens," which were accepted as legal tender. This particular coin, made of copper and weighing 9 grams, features an image of the Prince of Wales on one side and a shield with the letters "GR" (for Georgius Rex) on the other. Despite its relatively small denomination, the Token ½ Penny was an important part of everyday commerce during its time and is now a sought-after collector's item.