Description:
English copper token, 1791
Diameter 32mm
The obverse features a stork standing on a cornucopia. The inscription reads 'HALFPENNY PAYABLE AT' with a flower below. The reverse features a classically robed female figure seated and holding the fasces, a bundle of sticks bound together to symbolise strength and unity. The inscription reads 'BIRMINGHAM MINING AND COPPER COMPANY' and the date is below. Tokens such as this were produced from 1787-1797 when there was a shortage of regal copper coinage. This led the Anglesey Mines Company to produce its own copper penny and halfpenny tokens, a practice which became widespread during the period.