© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
1 Farthing - James I Harington issue; type 2 ND
| Copper | 0.48 g | 15 mm |
| Issuer | England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) |
|---|---|
| King | James I (1603-1625) |
| Type | Token |
| Years | 1614-1616 |
| Value | 1 Farthing (1⁄960) |
| Currency | Pound sterling (1158-1970) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 0.48 g |
| Diameter | 15 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#52444 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 85% |
Reverse
Crowned harp centrally with legend around, mintmark at 1 o'clock.
Script: Latin
Lettering: FRA:ET·HIB:REX
Unabridged legend: Franciae Et Hiberniae Rex
Translation: France and Ireland (continuation of obverse legend)
Comment
House of Stuart (1603-49), James I (1603-25), Harington type 2 copper farthing token.Production contracted to Lord Harington; mintmark on reverse only.
James I and Charles I farthings were considered tokens as they were not legal tender. Despite featuring a harp, Harington farthing tokens were not used in Ireland.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token 1 Farthing - James I (Harington issue; type 2) ND (1614-1616) from England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) made of Copper weighing 0.48 g is that it was issued during a time of great economic turmoil in England. The coin was minted during the reign of James I, who faced a severe shortage of small change, leading to the issuance of private tokens like this one. The coin's design features a crowned bust of James I on the obverse and a cross fleury on the reverse. Despite its small denomination, the coin was made of copper, which was a valuable resource at the time. Today, this coin is a rare and highly sought-after collector's item, offering a glimpse into the economic and political history of early 17th-century England.
