Colonial Era England | Copper Half Penny

History of the Artifact

The English halfpenny minted between 1672 and 1776 was a small copper coin widely used in Britain and its American colonies for everyday transactions. It was introduced to address the need for low-denomination currency and quickly became essential for trade among the working class. The design remained consistent throughout this period, featuring the reigning monarch’s portrait on the obverse and a seated Britannia on the reverse, symbolizing Britain’s naval power and stability.

In the American colonies, the halfpenny played a key role in daily commerce, supplementing local economies that often lacked sufficient official coinage. While British merchants used it in trade, its supply in the colonies was inconsistent, sometimes forcing people to rely on alternative currencies, including Spanish and French coins. Despite these fluctuations, the halfpenny remained one of the most commonly used British coins in colonial markets.

By 1776, as Britain faced growing political and economic challenges, including the American Revolution, the halfpenny was still widely used for small transactions in Britain and its territories. Its circulation in the colonies declined due to disruptions in trade, but in Britain, it continued to serve as a practical and familiar currency.

How do I know these are original coins?

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

What will my artifact look like?

Your Copper half penny will look very similar to the ones shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces. The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact. If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Your order will include:

• One authentic English half penny minted between 1672 and 1776
• Elegant protective case for preservation and display of your artifact 
• Certificate of Authenticity

Ancient Artifacts relics are guaranteed authentic and have a 100% money back policy. Read more about our Mission and Promise for authenticity.