1812 penny token....war or love token?

[Jack Burton]

I have absolutely no idea where to start trying to ID this coin. But it seems like no matter what gets posted here, someone on this forum knows what it is. I recently got this coin, and I have no idea what it is besides a penny token from 1812. Im not too good at reading old script so I cant read what the letters on the front are. I am hoping it is some sort of currency used during the war of 1812, but I guess it might just be a love token. The only reason I was thinking no on the love token is because it is not made on govt currency, and there is no hole in it. I thought love tokens were made on govt currency with an ingraver, and this coin looks like the script is stamped in there, part of the original coin. Thanks for any help guys.

 

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[PBK]

This piece is listed in Bell's Copper Commercial Coins, 1811-1819 as a non-local British trade token issued for general circulation. The cypher or monogram J I C has not been attributed. At that time there was often a shortage of official small-denomination coinage, and many banks, companies, and communities issued halfpenny and penny tokens to help meet the need.

 

[Jack Burton]

See that? I knew someone here would be able to pinpoint it, no matter what it is. One last question, does the book give rarity of the coin, or what it is worth? Just something to go by if I ever decide to ebay it. I probably wont though. Collectors call things like this an investment, but we never sell anything. Just collect and collect.

 

[PBK]

There is no pricing information in the book, which was published many years ago. However, this specialist in British "emergency coinage" tokens should be able to help you:

Bill McKivor

Website: http://www.thecoppercorner.com/

 

[Burdie]

One fine looking token. I hope it is valuable. Congrats on your find. HH Burdie

 

[trk5capt]

Congrats on a Very Nice and Interesting Token. trk5capt...

 

[Jack Burton]

This piece is listed in Bell's Copper Commercial Coins, 1811-1819 as a non-local British trade token issued for general circulation. The cypher or monogram J I C has not been attributed. At that time there was often a shortage of official small-denomination coinage, and many banks, companies, and communities issued halfpenny and penny tokens to help meet the need.

In case you guys were curious, I got the token ID'ed. I emailed mr. mckivor and he id'ed it. Even the monogram. This is what he said:

"The Monogram stands for Tredegar Iron Company, and if my memory does not fail me it is in
the Withers catalogue as W-1200. It is fairly common."

Even though it is common, I enjoy it for the historical significance tied to it with the war of 1812. The fact that it is for iron makes me even happier. Thanks for helping me get it id'ed PBK.

 

[The Seeker]

that is a great token....trade tokes came in a number of verities ...look in the us token book it should give you an idea of its history...

 

[hollowpointred]

common or not its still a great find! congratulations!!