The Collection of 18th Century Tokens formed by Dr David L Spence

Kent, Deptford, Thomas Haycraft, Halfpenny, 1795, Kentish men meeting equestrian figure of William I, rev. stern of the Royal George, deptford edge, 9.18g/6h (DH 12). From the obverse die in its original state, about extremely fine with a hint of original colour, very rare (£70-90)

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Collection of 18th Century Tokens formed by Dr David L Spence.

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Provenance:
Fawcett/Litman Collection.

Thomas Haycraft, ironmonger and brazier, Broadway, Deptford. The obverse refers to a legend that, following the Battle of Hastings, in which Kentish men formed the vanguard of Harold II’s army, William met a deputation at Swanscombe and assured them of their continued right to ancient laws and privileges. The reverse shows the fourth Royal George, launched at Chatham in 1788 and Admiral Hood’s flagship (cf. Dykes, BNJ 2000, pp.100-2