"Love Token"

Date1729-1775 (host coin)

MediumCopper

Dimensions26mm

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2002-50

DescriptionA so-called "Love Token," this piece began life as either a George II or George III 1/2d (halfpenny), which had most of its devices removed. This is evidenced by traces of the final "A" of BRITANIA (the reverse legend of the host coin - see Seaby 3717, 3719 & 3774) at 9:30 on the "Thos. Henry" side of the piece. Its edge was then upset, likely by hammering. Both sides of the piece were then engraved while its edge was chased. Such tokens are believed to have been a sentimental keepsake often carried as pocket pieces. While love tokens are encountered from the 17th and 18th centuries from time to time, they reached the height of their pupularity during the Victorian era.
Label TextA so-called "Love Token," this piece began life as either a George II or George III 1/2d (halfpenny). One side is engraved "Thos: Henry CUTLER. Born June 19th 1761," while the other side is engraved "Martha Kimmarley. Born Novr. 9 1760." Its edge is chased with "THE-LOVE-IS-TRUE-THAT-I-O-U," with each segment in its own foliated scroll. Such tokens are believed to have been sentimental keepsakes often carried as pocket pieces. While love tokens are encountered from the 17th and 18th centuries, they reached the height of their popularity during the Victorian era.
InscribedOne side engraved "Thos: Henry CUTLER. Born June 19th 1761" with a slight scrolling flourish above. The other side is engraved "Martha Kimmarley. Born Novr. 9 1760" with an "S" shaped flourish above. Its edge is chased with "THE-LOVE-IS-TRUE-THAT-I-O-U," with each segment in its own foliated scroll.