Lace Manufacturer Token From 1794

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Object Details

Description

This token valued at a half penny was issued by a merchant to pay his workers in 1794. The inscription reads "Pay at Leighton Berkhamsted or London - 1794" with a sheep on one side, "Lace Manufactory" and a woman making lace on a pillow under a tree on the other. "Chambers, Langston, Hall & Co” is stamped around the rim. The token could only be used at one of the merchant's stores. Chambers, Langston, Hall & Co were haberdashers at 46 Gutter Lane, Cheapside, London. This type of tokens was possibly issued due to a shortage of official small change coins in the late 18th century.

Location

Currently not on view

Credit Line

Gift of Mr. Mendel L. Peterson, 1961

date made

1794

ID Number

TE.T12692

catalog number

T12692

accession number

238479

Object Name

token, commemorative

token, commemorative, lace

Physical Description

copper (overall material)

Measurements

overall: 2.9 cm; 1 5/32 in

place made

United Kingdom: England, London

See more items in

Home and Community Life: Textiles

Advertising

Industry & Manufacturing

Coins, Currency and Medals

Lace

Textiles

Data Source

National Museum of American History

Subject