Summary

Copper One Penny Token, minted by an unknown British Mint. Issued by M. Somerville, Wholesale Family Grocer, Auckland, New Zealand, 1857. Little is known about Mark Somerville, although it is certain that his business endured for many years. The corner block where the store was located was 'the datum point for most information given to strangers as to suburban distances; "so many miles from Somerville's corner" was the common form of direction.' (Robinson, 1974, p.142). After many years the store moved to another site in Auckland, and soon after Somerville sold it to a Mr Walter Graham. Somerville died in 1902.

Previous Collections: National Gallery of Victoria by exchange with Melbourne Mint

Physical Description

A round copper token (34 mm diameter). The token features the name, address and business of the issuer: M. Somerville, City Mart, Auckland, whilseale family grocer. The reverse features a bouquet of rose, thistle and shamrock with the legend NEW ZEALAND 1857.

Obverse Description

Legend in five lines: M. SOMERVILLE / WHOLESALE / FAMILY GROCER / CITY MART / AUCKLAND

Reverse Description

At centre a bouquet of rose, thistle and shamrock with the legend NEW ZEALAND 1857.

Edge Description

Plain

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