Trade Token
Finds From Wirral
Trade Token
Trade tokens are coin like objects that were issued by private companies.
There was a coin shortage in the late 18th century as the Royal Mint reduced coin production so tokens like these became almost currency.
They were redeemable at company offices or stores.
This one is a half penny token which features John of Gaunt on the front with the shield of the town of Lancaster on the rear. It is dated 1794 and was almost certainly issued by Thomas Worswick and sons from New Street in Lancaster. He was a banker, silversmith and goldsmith.
This would have originally been stamped around the edge but this example is quite worn and although some vestiges of lettering is present it cannot be read.
John of Gaunt was the fourth son of King Edward III and he became the Duke of Lancaster hence his use on the token.