Holt's "Plantation" halfpenny (1/24 Real)

Dateca.1688

Mint Tower of London

Patent Holder Richard Holt & Co.

Engraver John Crocker

OriginEngland, London

MediumTin

DimensionsDiameter: 27 mm

Credit LineGift of the Lasser Family

Object number2004-8,11

DescriptionHolt's halfpennyLabel TextMade of almost pure tin, these coins are the first specifically made for Britain's American colonies. However, the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and subsequent ousting of King James II interrupted their production. They were never well-received in America.

These tokens have a unique denomination, 1/24 of a Spanish real, as spelled out in the reverse legend. 192 of them to equaled a piece of eight or dollar, so it's not difficult to see why they were never popular.

Breen-80 ('HB REX' variety)