Summary

Copper One Penny Token, minted by J.C. Thornthwaite, 1855. Issued by John Allen, General Stores, Kiama, New South Wales. John Allen is said to have rejected tokens made for him by the Sydney Medalist J.C. Thornthwaite in 1855, because of their poor workmanship. After John had rejected his tokens they were disposed of at a penny each by Thornthwaite to the toll gatekeeper at Annandale [Sydney], who passed them on in change to hapless wayfarers.

Physical Description

A round copper token (34 mm diameter) featuring the name and business name of the issuer, John Allen General Stores of Kiama. It features Arms with the motto ADVANCE AUSTRALIA and a floral bouquet of rose, thistle and shamrock.

Obverse Description

Curved around central image of rose, shamrock and thistle, JOHN ALLEN / GENERAL / STORES / . KIAMA .

Reverse Description

Arms of New South Wales supported by poorly formed kangaroo (left) and emu (right); above, ADVANCE AUSTRALIA; below, 1855

Edge Description

Plain

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