© Wayne Hall
© Wayne Hall
1 Penny - Annand Smith Melbourne; Victoria ND
| Copper | 15.95 g | 34 mm |
| Issuer | Victoria (Australian States) |
|---|---|
| Queen | Victoria (1837-1901) |
| Type | Token |
| Years | 1849-1851 |
| Value | 1 Penny (1⁄240) |
| Currency | Pound sterling (1788-1900) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 15.95 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#134921 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 85% |
Reverse
Gray#15 14 leaves in olive branch. No initials either side of shield.
Gray#15a 11 leaves in olive branch. Initials H & S to right of shield, K to left.
Script: Latin
Lettering: BRITANNIA
Designer: Conrad Heinrich Küchler
Edge
Plain
Comment
Gray#15. Struck in 1849, this is Australia’s first minted token. The reverse was struck with original 1806 UK penny dies but only after the “SOHO” symbol and designers initial (K) were first removed from each side of the shield. Two trial strikes are known in white metal.Small differences between specimens have been observed in the areas where the initials have been machined off. Records show this issue was struck on 3 separate occasions this more that one die may have been used. More research required but this may qualify as another variety.
A number of these types can be found counterstamped (surcharged) with “F. CADE”. Frederick Cade was one of Melbourne’s first chemists and he was also the first merchant to counterstamp another traders tokens.
Gray#15a. Second issue struck by Heaton & Sons in 1851. Their initials H & S have now been added to the design along with a “K” for the designer Conrad Küchler.
The heigh quality strike of Britannia caused slight flan dishing in both issues resulting in premature wear of “FAMILY GROCERS”. Heigh grade examples or either type with strong clear lettering command a premium.
Central weekness is typical for both issues
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Token 1 Penny - Annand Smith (Melbourne; Victoria) ND (1849-1851) from Victoria (Australian States) made of Copper weighing 15.95g is that it was used as a form of currency during the gold rush era in Australia. The coin was minted by Annand Smith, a private company, and was used to facilitate trade and commerce in the region. Despite not being an official government-issued coin, it was widely accepted and used by the public. This coin is a unique piece of Australian history and a valuable collector's item for numismatists today.
