Communion Token (Belhelvie)
Date1723
Object NameToken
Mediumlead
ClassificationsTokens
Dimensions17 x 17 x 2mm
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS013373
About MeSmall, square token inscribed on one side only as follows: BEL 1723. This very simple style of token is a typical `home-made' product, probably by a local blacksmith. Many early 18th-century examples are of this type.The Pre-Reformation church at Belhelvie was dedicated to St Columba and belonged to Arbroath Abbey. At the time of the issue of the token the minister was The Rev. William Dyce, son of an Old Aberdeen merchant. The present church is located about half a mile north-east of Belhelvie village.
There is nothing to suggest that Columba, most famous of all the Irish Celtic saints, had any connection with Belhelvie but such was his fame that he was adopted by many parishes. Even today he is a popular choice - for street names as well as churches.
