1 Farthing - James I (Lennox issue; type 4/3 mule) ND (1622-1623) front 1 Farthing - James I (Lennox issue; type 4/3 mule) ND (1622-1623) back
1 Farthing - James I (Lennox issue; type 4/3 mule) ND (1622-1623) photo
© Heritage Auctions

1 Farthing - James I Lennox issue; type 4/3 mule ND

 
Copper 0.44 g 17 mm
Description
Issuer
England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies)
King
James I (1603-1625)
Type
Token
Years
1622-1623
Value
1 Farthing (1⁄960)
Currency
Pound sterling (1158-1970)
Composition
Copper
Weight
0.44 g
Diameter
17 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Roller milled
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#63836
Rarity index
90%

Reverse

Crown with 5 jewels on the circlet. Eagle-headed harp with 6 or 7 strings. No privy mark.

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), copper farthing token, production contracted to Lord Lennox.

Variants:
Emerson 44a; Peck/BMC 62 (6 harp strings)
Emerson 44b; Peck/BMC 63 (7 harp strings)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Token 1 Farthing - James I (Lennox issue; type 4/3 mule) ND (1622-1623) from England is that it was issued during a time of great economic turmoil in the country. The early 17th century saw a severe shortage of small change, which led to the issuance of private tokens, like this one, by merchants and traders to fill the gap. This coin, made of copper and weighing only 0.44g, was one of the many tokens issued during this time, and it features a unique design, with the king's crown and coat of arms on one side and a cross and pelicans on the other. Despite its small size and humble materials, this coin is a valuable piece of history, offering a glimpse into the economic and social conditions of the time.