½ Penny Suffolk - Bury / Rackham's ND
1794 year| Copper | 10.2 g | 28.6 mm |
| Issuer | United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) |
|---|---|
| Type | Token |
| Year | 1794 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Conder tokens (1787-1797) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 10.2 g |
| Diameter | 28.6 mm |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-08 |
| Numista | N#284360 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 90% |
Reverse
Central open book with lettering above and below.
Lettering:
PAYABLE
AT
RACKHAMS
CIRCULATING LIBRAy
ANGEL HILL
BURY
Edge
Plain with incuse lettering
Note: varieties exist (see below)
Lettering: OR AT LEATHERDALES . X . HARLESTON NORFOLK
Comment
John Rackham was a bookseller, printer and proprietor of the circulating library at Angel Hill, opposite the old Abbey Gate in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny (Suffolk - Bury / Rackham's) ND (1794) coin is that it was issued during a time of severe coinage shortages in the United Kingdom, particularly in rural areas. To address this issue, local businesses and merchants began issuing their own tokens, like this one, which were accepted as currency by the community. This coin's design, featuring a simple layout with the denomination and issuer's name, reflects its utilitarian purpose as a practical substitute for official currency. Despite its humble origins, this coin has become a sought-after collector's item, offering a glimpse into the economic history of the United Kingdom during that time.
