Description
E. De Carle & Co / Edward De Carle & Co., Auctioneers token (Melbourne, Victoria, 1855) — what it is, design details, context, and what makes it interesting. If you want, I can also pull up market values.
What it is
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This is a trade-/merchant token issued in 1855 by Edward (“E.” / “Edwd.”) De Carle & Co, who operated in Melbourne, Victoria.
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The business of Edward De Carle spanned several ventures: grocers & spirit merchants, auctioneers & land agents, and others. He was active in Melbourne after arriving in 1849.
Design / Physical Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 1 Penny token |
| Material | Copper (sometimes “bronze” used loosely) |
| Diameter | ~ 33-34 mm |
| Weight | ~ 14-15 grams (varies slightly by specimen) |
| Edge | Plain |
Inscriptions & Imagery
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Obverse (front):
The text reads “EDWD. DE’CARLE & CO. / AUCTIONEERS / &c. / MELBOURNE” in several lines, around a beaded border. -
Reverse (back):
It features a seated female figure (representing Tasmania in this version), seated to left on a shield decorated with the Union Jack; she holds balanced scales (justice) in one hand and a sword in the other; inscription around: “+ TASMANIA + ANNO 1855” -
There are at least three different token issues by De Carle:
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Under “Grocers & Spirit Merchants”
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Under “Auctioneers & Land Agents” (this one)
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Under “Auctioneers, etc.”
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