UK - Warwickshire, Moneta and Minting Press

December 2024

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An iconic product of the era of Conder tokens, this is a product of the most prolific provincial token maker, Lutwyche of Birmingham. This may have been under commission of Kempson, but it appears to benefit Lutwyche exclusively, more research required. Obverse depicts Moneta seated holding balance scales in one hand and supporting a cornucopia spilling out coins, in exergue is "DEA PECUNIA" or goddess of money (Moneta). Additionally there's an oak sapling and a shop placard resting against a column with the words " ENGRAVING & DIE SINKING." Legend is "MEDALS & PROVINCIAL COINS." Reverse shows a manual screw coining press with 'boy pit' below and several dies with "BIRMINGHAM" in exergue, legend is " LUTWYCHES MANUFACTORY." As a DH# 219b this variety has a plain edge and was struck in collar. This token is said to be designed by Noel-Alexandre Ponthon and made by William Lutwyche, confirmation required.
William Lutwyche, (1754-1801), toymaker, later token manufacturer, Temple Row and St Philip churchyard. Lutwyche was active in the production of tokens from 1791 until 1801 and seems to have had more individual commissions for tokens than any other manufacturer. His output of more than 65 tons of "legitimate provincial coins" was exceeded only by that of Thomas Williams, the consortium of Westwood and Hancock, and that of Matthew Boulton. He frequently combined dies, then in his possession, to produce various mules, concocted numerous specious issues, and has been attributed with manufacturing the bulk of evasions and lightweight coppers that appeared toward the end of the 18th century. [Numista.com]