カタログ
| 表面の説明 | Text-only obverse with multiple concentric lines of inscription advertising the business. Raised rim with denticles. |
|---|---|
| 表面の文字体系 | Latin |
| 表面の銘文 | R. S. WATERHOUSE DRAPERY ESTABLISHMENT HOBART TOWN MANCHESTER HOUSE ONE PENNY TOKEN |
| 裏面の説明 | A small child holding a large trade balance / scale (symbol of fair trade and fixed prices). Raised rim with denticles. |
| 裏面の文字体系 | Latin |
| 裏面の銘文 | FOR READY MONEY * WAREHOUSE * BABY LINEN * THE SPIRIT OF TRADE |
| 縁 | |
| 鋳造所 | |
| 鋳造数 |
ND (1855-1860) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 6417020510 |
| 追加情報 |
Historical Context: This copper one-penny token, issued by R. S. Waterhouse, Hobart, Tasmania (1855-1860), is a key artifact from a pivotal era. During Queen Victoria's reign, Australian colonies faced a severe shortage of official regal coinage, impeding commerce. Private merchants, like draper R. S. Waterhouse, issued these tokens to fill this critical void. These emissions highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and economic self-reliance of the colonies before consistent imperial coinage supply.
Artistry: The R. S. Waterhouse token design exemplifies the commercial utilitarian aesthetic of mid-19th century Australian trade tokens. While the engraver is often undocumented, dies were likely local or British. The obverse features "R. S. WATERHOUSE" and "DRAPER," typically within a border. The reverse states "ONE PENNY" and "HOBART TOWN TASMANIA," sometimes dated. This direct, unembellished design prioritizes issuer and value clarity, reflecting its function as circulating medium.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, 33.2 mm, 11.89 grams, this token meets large penny specifications. High-points for wear include raised lettering (issuer's name, denomination) and any beaded border. Technical strike quality varies; peripheral weakness is common due to the large planchet and inconsistent pressures. Copper planchet flaws or laminations are also characteristic of this period's token production.