by
Published on 12-12-2011 07:49 PM
In 1775 the British government ceased production of copper coins, including the Regal farthings, half-penny, and penny varieties. Very quickly, small change began to disappear from circulation. Those still in circulation quickly became very worn, and barely identifiable. The lack of small coinage quickly began to hamper local trade and commerce.
Lightweight counterfeits began appearing prolifically. Merchants and the public alike, though angry, had no choice, but to accept these imitations.
...
