Summary

Copper one Penny Token, minted by Heaton & Sons in Birmingham, circa 1857. Issued by Iredale & Co. Iron Merchants & Ironmongers, in Sydney. Transported to Australia in 1812 and later emancipated Lancelot Iredale, founded an Ironmongery firm in 1820. In 1844 Iredale and Co. provided supplies to the expedition mounted by explorer Ludwig Leichhardt that crossed Australia from Sydney to Port Essington. The following year Lancelot's son Robert took over the business. Thomas, Robert's brother, and Frederic Lassetter joined the firm in 1850. In 1854 Iredale and Co. issued their first tokens, making them one of the first companies to issue tokens in Australia. In 1855 George Iredale, another brother, joined the firm. In 1861 after Thomas' death, Lancelot Jr., the Grandson of the founder, became the principal of the firm.

Physical Description

A round copper token (34 mm diameter). The token design featuring the name, partial address, business and foundation date of the issuer: Iredale and Co., Sydney, iron merchants and general ironmongers. The reverse depicts Justice standing facing left, blindfolded and extending balanced scales from her right hand, her left hand rests on an inverted cornucopiae from which fruits flow. A sailing ship is seen on the horizon to the left of the figure. This token has been cleaned, the obverse has toned green and the reverse is worn.

Obverse Description

At centre within line circle, ESTABLISHED / 1820 / IREDALE & CO. / SYDNEY around, * IRON MERCHANTS AND GENERAL IRONMONGERS

Reverse Description

Justice standing facing left, blindfolded and extending balanced scales from her right hand, her left hand rests on an inverted cornucopiae from which fruits flow. A sailing ship is seen on the horizon to the left of the figure. Around above, [AU]STRAL[IA]

Edge Description

Plain

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