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 Replies: 9 / Views: 1,491 |
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New Member
Canada
30 Posts |
Hello. This seems like a token or medallion 1797 but I cannot find any reference to it. It looks UK to me, red metal, copper? Large and heavy, 21 grams, 35mm diameter. Intricate design and an indentation as if struck on the reverse in the centre. It ending up slightly saucer shaped, convex to the head, spins easily on its tail. Is anyone familiar with it? What is the design in the centre reverse? Token; family medallion, commemorative, country of origin? Thanks in advance for any input. paul   |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
3253 Posts |
This token is about the diameter of a British "Cartwheel" penny, also introduced in 1797. The weight is about seven grams lighter, and I think that seven grams went with Mr Steptoe's exquisitely fine engraving, to create this lovely testament to his skill. A "love token" to himself, as it were.
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New Member
 Canada
30 Posts |
Thanks philadelphian, do you have any details about Mr. Steptoe...location or where details can be found about him or the 'love token'
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Pillar of the Community
United States
3253 Posts |
"Hobo nickels" are called that for a reason. These tended to be anonymous craftsmen, who deserved more recognition for their skills. This coin may be the only lasting mark that Tom Steptoe made on the world. I would guess he was British; perhaps a soldier or sailor. Or even a convict; such tokens made from cartwheel pennies were the work of prisoners sent to Australia. Maybe a clearer picture of the center design element with the shield would give some clues to him.
Edited by philadelphian
10/05/2013 12:58 pm
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Pillar of the Community
Thailand
1509 Posts |
Perhaps a distant relative of these two?   "Steptoe and Son" rag and bone men (scrap metal merchants). A wonderful British comedy from the sixties and seventies. |
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New Member
Canada
30 Posts |
Well, another area that I was totally unfamiliar with. Sort of coin scrimshaw, a unique item? I wonder if Mr. Steptoe defaced it in frustration or anger or if it was someone else. This is as detailed as I can get, it looks more like a continuation of design rather than a 'picture' to me. Thanks again for the input, paul     |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
3253 Posts |
There seems to be a band of blur across the center of that pic. Maybe take a new one?
And on this side of the pond, we're more familiar with the American re-creation of Steptoe and Son-- Sanford and Son! God rest Redd Foxx!
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New Member
Canada
30 Posts |
Will try another pic. Being an immigrant to Canada from UK I remember Steptoe and the scurrilous father with fondness.
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New Member
Canada
30 Posts |
Looking better. Perhaps the upper line: s ? ? l e and lower line ends in ? ? V e. Save, slave. ?    |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
3253 Posts |
Looks like another ornate monogram, like on the obverse. At first glance, seems like two lines, but that's just the curlicues.
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Replies: 9 / Views: 1,491 |
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Posted 10/05/2013 12:29 pm
