My brother...

...has asked if I have a pre 1910 shilling coin. Out to the garage to get the big jar of old money. Success I have a Victoria 1896 he can have.

I came across this halfpenny token payable at the house of John White of Kirkgate Leith a dealer in liquor and grocery. The coin is dated 1796. The obverse and reverse with the white background is from a reference site, the green background is my coin. I began to notice differences between the two.

The direction of the oars on the small boat is reversed. Mine has a pennant atop the watch tower in the background (interestingly blowing in the opposite direction of the four other flags and the billowing sails on the ship). The rigging detail differs. The blockwork on the sea wall does not match. There are differences on the other side too, the end of the held staff rests against differing letters.

The more you look the more you spot. A bit more research I think to find out more about John White and his dealings and see if I can find out how many strike versions of the coin were made. All interestingly enough, save me doing a post Christmas jigsaw (which is currently frustrating Mrs FP.)

The extra is what I thought was a coin but turns out to be a coronation medal (the small dink at the top is where a hasp was attached.) I have come across dozens of versions of both sides, this one being dedicated to John Greig Provost of Tayport, Fife, near where I grew up.

03/01/2025 A link sent to me on the back of this post.

Link to 'Conder Tokens'