Catalog
| Issuer | United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Year | 1793 |
| Type | Emergency coin |
| Value | 1/2 Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Conder tokens (1787-1797) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 10.43 g |
| Diameter | 29.07 mm |
| Thickness | 1.96 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | DH#242 |
| Obverse description | Lady Godiva on horseback with head coming under the second O of BONO |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | PRO BONO PUBLICO 1793 |
| Reverse description | Elephant and castle (The arms of the city). The Y in legend is further from the tail of the elephant |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | COVENTRY HALFPENNY |
| Edge | Incuse legend |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1793 - DH#242 – PAYABLE IN BEDWORTH HINKLEY OR NUNEATON - 1793 - DH#242a - PAYABLE AT BEDWORTH NUNEATON OR HINKLEY - 1793 - DH#242b - PAYABLE AT NUNEATON BEDWORTH OR HINKLEY - 1793 - DH#242c –PAYABLE AT NUNEATON llll HINKLEY llll OR llll BEDWORTH - 1793 - DH#242d - PAYABLE AT LONDON OR ANGLESEY - 1793 - DH#242e - PAYABLE AT I.FIELDINGS MANCHESTER - |
| Numisquare ID | 1009821600 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1793 1/2 Penny token emerged during King George III's reign, a transformative era marked by industrialization and European conflicts. Severe regal copper coinage shortages crippled commerce, prompting merchants and towns to issue private "Conder tokens." This Warwickshire – Coventry issue, featuring Lady Godiva, exemplifies this economic necessity and local initiative, functioning as vital currency while celebrating regional identity.
Artistry: The design reflects the robust, detailed style of late 18th-century provincial die-sinkers, often linked to the Birmingham school. While specific engravers are often elusive, the quality suggests skilled artisans. The obverse prominently displays Lady Godiva, nude and astride her horse with flowing hair, powerfully evoking the Coventry legend. The reverse typically features Coventry’s heraldic elephant and castle, signifying civic pride, rendered with pragmatic yet expressive artistry.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, this token measures 29.07 mm and weighs 10.43 grams. For optimal grading, sharp detail is sought in the design's high-points. On the obverse, this includes Lady God