Most of those mining-related tokens from Cornwall and vicinity in the early
1800's are described and illustrated in a book called "Cornish Tokens" by J.
A. Williams, published by D. B. Barton of Truro. There was also a later
version, by Williams and another author as I recall, but I don't have the
reference at hand. Several copies of the Williams book are available on the
Abebooks website. I don't think these books deal with repro's, but they
should at least show you what the originals look like.
Woody Thompson
Maine Geological Survey
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From: mining-history [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of
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Sent: Thursday, April 27, 2006 2:45 AM
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Subject: Re: Tavistock Penny 1811
Robert
I think these are the makers marks of the modern/repro die sinkers. I'm sure
that none of these markings appear on the original Birmingham minted
Tavistock pennies of 1811. The original pennies are not that rare but
normally turn up in fairly worn condition compared to many of the other 1811
series of commercial pennies.
It is common for repros. such as the ones being made by Bidbury to have some
form of makers or repro. mark on them to stop them being passed off as
originals (as can happen).
Regards
Mark Smith
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