Pitt Tokens

William Pitt, the British politician who endeared himself to America, is the subject of these pieces, probably intended as commemorative medalets. The so-called halfpenny served as currency during a shortage of regular coinage. The reverse legend (THANKS TO THE FRIENDS OF LIBERTY AND TRADE) refers to Pitt’s efforts to have the Stamp Act repealed. The Pitt farthing-size tokens, struck in brass or copper, are rare.