Catalog
| Issuer | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | |
| Type | Emergency coin |
| Value | 1/2 Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Conder tokens (1787-1797) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Thickness | 1.5 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | DH#345 |
| Obverse description | A postilion left holding a harnessed horse right. Lettering around and in exergue. Toothed border |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | KELLY’S LIGHT HARNESS &c SOLD CHEAP AT THEIR MANUFACTORY STRAND LONDON |
| Reverse description | An assortment of six items of riding equipment, and an umbrella. Lettering around, toothed border |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | KELLYS PATENT SADLERY &c SOLD CHEAP |
| Edge | Plain with legend and ornaments |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND - DH#345 - PAYABLE AT LONDON · + · + · + · - ND - DH#345a - PAYABLE AT LONDON BATH OR MANCHESTER - ND - DH#345b - PAYABLE IN ANGLESEY LONDON OR LIVERPOOL - ND - DH#345c - PAYABLE IN DUBLIN OR LONDON - ND - DH#345d - PAYABLE BY HENRY OLIVERS - ND - DH#345e - milled edge - ND - DH#345f - plain edge (not in collar) - |
| Numisquare ID | 6924844460 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:This 1/2 Penny token from Kelly's Saddlery emerged during King George III's reign, a period of severe regal copper coinage shortage in Great Britain. The Royal Mint's inability to provide sufficient small change in the late 18th century compelled private merchants to issue their own tokens. These provincial, or Conder, tokens became a vital medium of exchange, filling the void. Kelly's Saddlery, located at Nº 14, Pall Mall, Middlesex, participated in this practice, ensuring commercial liquidity.
Artistry:The Kelly's Saddlery 1/2 Penny token, though often unsigned, exemplifies the utilitarian artistry of late 18th-century token engra