1812 - One Penny 'Accommodation' Token - Birmingham Union Copper Company
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These tokens were issued to address the shortage of official coinage and were widely used in trade. The obverse side features clasped hands with the inscription “UNION COPPER COMPANY · BIRMINGHAM · 1812,” symbolizing unity and cooperation. The reverse side reads “ONE PENNY TOKEN PAYABLE FOR PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION,” indicating its use as a substitute for official currency.
The tokens were accepted in various transactions and were particularly useful for public accommodations, such as inns and taverns, where small change was often needed. They are now valued by collectors for their historical significance and the insight they provide into the economic conditions of the time.
Weight 26.08g
(ref:AHC146)