Obv: Three-quarter bust facing left, FREDERICK DUKE OF YORK around. Rev: The Bricklayers’ Arms, 1793 below, MANCHESTER HALFPENNY PAYABLE AT J. RAYNER & CO. Edge: ANLESEY LONDON OR LIVERPOOL.
Extra Fine. Trifling marks. Rare this nice. Scarce.
Born in 1763, Frederick Duke of York was the second son of George III. It is possible that this is an authentic trade token, yet nothing is known of the firm J. Rayner & Co. The bricklayers arms on the reverse are for the Bricklayers’ and Tilers’ Company, incorporated during the time of Elizabeth I. The chisel like tool featured on the arms are what is known as a brickaxe, used to shape and cut bricks for their required shape.
