unkown coin

[Guest Ian Harrison]

www.pcplod@huxleypig.co.uk.

Sir,

I have in my possession a 1794 Half Penny, which i can describe as follows;

On one side appears a the head of what appears to be a Greek soldier and the inscription "PROMISSORY HALF PENNY".

On the other side is a ship, at the bottom of the coin the date 1794 and above the ship "PRO BONOPU BLICO".

I am interested in the the origin, rarity and value and would be obliged if you could help.

Yours Thankfully.

Mr I.D.Harrison.

[Emperor Oli]

I think it's a Conder token, but I'm not sure. Chris (Webmaster, proprietor, all-round nice guy) will be able to tell you more...

[Chris Perkins]

Well what a wonderful introduction (you'll go a long way!).

It is indeed an 18th Century regional token (otherwise known as a Conder). If it's in average condition it's unlikely to be worth very much. I'm afraid I can't really help with the rarity level. Most of them are common and it should state around the edge in small lettering where it was payable/issued.