TOKEN

A cast lead alloy token of later medieval to post-medieval date, circa (AD 1400-1800). The token is circular in plan. The upper face is decorated with a cast design comprising nine raised pellets placed circumferentially. Many of the pellets extend to the outer edge of the token. The centre of the token has a circular piercing; surrounding this is a possible heart or triangular shape in relief. It is possible that the overall design can be compared to Powell's type 36 (hearts). The reverse face is flat and un-decorated. The token has a mid-brown coloured patina across all surfaces.

Lead tokens had a wide variety of potential uses such as use as tallies, gaming pieces, tickets, weights, etc. and are believed to have been locally produced; they are therefore difficult to date precisely. Those carrying initials are generally deemed to be Post Medieval in date (1500-1850 AD), those which seem to mimic Medieval penny designs are deemed to be Medieval, the remainder which carry stylised designs remain difficult to date but the majority are probably Post Medieval in date c.1500-1800. Powell (2012) comments that Type 1, 31, and 3 are designs which were commonly made stock and occur in large quantities, dating to the late 16th to mid-19th centuries.

The token measures 21.8mm diameter, is 3.23mm thick and weighs 7.1 grams

Powell, D. (2012) The 18th century Sophistication of the Stock Design. Lead Token Telegraph Issue 86.

Numismatic data

No numismatic data has been recorded for this coin yet.