Item NU 3004 Token - Threepence, J.C. Thornthwaite, Die Sinker & Medallist, Surry Hills, New South Wales, Australia, 1854

Summary

Silver Threepence Token, minted and issued by J.C. Thornthwaite of New South Wales, in 1854. Thornthwaite was the first person to manufacture tokens and medals in Australia. Migrating to Sydney in 1849, his tokens are noteworthy for the lack of clarity of detail in design because the dies were not cut deep enough and he lacked the tools to produce high quality tokens. Thornthwaite also worked as a medallist, particularly after tokens were made illegal in NSW in 1868.

Previous Collections: National Gallery of Victoria

Physical Description

A round silver token (16 mm dia) featuring an Arms of New South Wales supported by a kangaroo and emu. This token has been holed. The letters J.C.T. are the initials of J.C. Thornthwaite who both struck and issued these tokens.

Obverse Description

Arms of New South Wales supported by kangaroo (left) and emu (right); around, SYDNEY NEW SOUTH WALES; below, 18[54] (holed through last numerals of date)

Reverse Description

Large numeral 3 below rising sun; around, SILVER TOKEN * J.C.T.* (the letters J.C.T. are the artist's initials)

Edge Description

Plain