Farthing Trade Token (Perth)
DesignerDesigned by
T. Menzies
Date1798
Object NameToken
Mediumcopper alloy
ClassificationsTokens
DimensionsOverall: Diameter: 21 mm
Approx.: Thickness: 1 mm
Weight: Weight: 3.8 gm
Approx.: Thickness: 1 mm
Weight: Weight: 3.8 gm
AcquisitionBequeathed in 1943 by George W Clyne.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS013591
About MeA farthing-size token from Perth designed by J. Menzies. Like certain other tokens from this part of Scotland it emphasises the importance of the area's textile industry.The obverse of the token portrays Monk's Tower with a number of ships berthed below it. The Monk's Tower formed part of the Cromwellian fortifications of Perth constructed c.1654. General George Monk (1608-70), 1st Duke of Albermarle, was Cromwell's deputy in Scotland.
On the reverse of the piece a female figure is shown watering cloth on a bleach field while the accompanying inscription boasts of Perth's suitability as a centre for the linen industry.
These Perth farthings were manufactured by Kempson of Birmingham, a family firm which originally specialised in button-making.
19th Century
