½ Penny (Suffolk – Sudbury / Goldsmiths) 1793 front ½ Penny (Suffolk – Sudbury / Goldsmiths) 1793 back
½ Penny (Suffolk – Sudbury / Goldsmiths) 1793 photo
Reverse © Heritage Auctions

½ Penny Suffolk – Sudbury / Goldsmiths

1793 year
Copper 11.43 g 29.15 mm
Description
Issuer
United Kingdom (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
Type
Token
Year
1793
Value
½ Penny (1⁄480)
Currency
Conder tokens (1787-1797)
Composition
Copper
Weight
11.43 g
Diameter
29.15 mm
Thickness
2.15 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#53097
Rarity index
83%

Reverse

Plain design with horizontal legend and date across 3 lines

NOTE: the 1 in the date comes under the B in "PUBLICO"

Script: Latin

Lettering:
PRO BONO
PUBLICO
1 7 9 3 .

Translation: For the good of the people

Edge

Edge lettering

NOTE: varieties exist

Lettering: PAYABLE AT GOLDSMITH & SONS SUDBURY. X X X .

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Token ½ Penny (Suffolk – Sudbury / Goldsmiths) 1793 from United Kingdom is that it was issued during a time of severe coinage shortages in the country. The coin was minted by a private company, Goldsmiths, and was one of many tokens issued by various companies and individuals to address the lack of official currency. This coin, in particular, was issued for use in the town of Sudbury in Suffolk and features a unique design, including an image of a shield with the letters "S" and "G" on either side, representing the town and the Goldsmiths company. Despite being minted by a private company, the Token ½ Penny was accepted as legal tender in many parts of the country, highlighting the resourcefulness and adaptability of the British people during a time of economic challenge.