Hull Halfpenny Token

Description:

Hull copper halfpenny token, 1791

Diameter 30mm

The obverse features a mounted male figure facing right and carrying a stick in his right hand. The inscription above reads 'GULIELMUS TERTIUS REX.', 'King William III', and the date below is 'MDCLXXXIX' (1689). This is the date that William III was declared co-ruler of England, Scotland and Ireland alongside Mary II. The reverse features the Coat of Arms of the city within a half wreath of oak. The date 1791 and the inscription 'HULL HALFPENNY' are above. 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.