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10

REPORT ON COINS FOUND

-··DEPARTMENT OF PLANN ING

FIRST GOVERNMENT HOUSE SITE, SYDNEY

i

REPORT ON COINS FOUND ON

FIRST GOVERNMENT HOUSE SITE

By

Pat Boland

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Heritage and Conservation Branch Department of Planning

New South Wales Government

HERITAGE RESOURCE SERVICES

AN UTECH PTY L TO

GPO BOX4

CANBERRA ACT 2601

JULY 1987

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1789 NORTH ELEVATION

WlDIIll

NORTII ELEVATION 1827

frontispiece Government House 1789 and 1827 from Conybeare, Morrison & Partners 1985 First Government House Conservation Plan: Draft. Prepared for NSW Department of Environment & Planning

preface

In this report Pat Boland presents the analysis. of coins from the First Government House Archaeological Site. The site was excavated from 1982 to 1984 under the direction of Anne Bickford. Analysis of the

archaeological materials was commissioned in April of 1987 by the

Department of Environment and Planning and carried out by a team of specialists under the management of ANUTECH Pty Ltd. The objective was to prepare a popular archaeological account of the First Government House Site.

All analyses were carried out at the same time with the stratigraphic

analysis being the last report to be drafted. The stratigraphic analysis was thus able to draw upon the findings of the other studies and to modify the stratigraphic framework. As such the stratigraphic analysis is the prime report with respect to stratigraphic matters. It is advisable to read First Government House Site, Sydney Stratigraphic Analysis Report prior to consulting the other reports.

All reports are preliminary and could benefit from further analysis.

This is particularly the case with the reports which deal with large quantities of materials, the ceramic and the glass studies .

Reports prepared by the team members are as follows.

First Government House Site, Sydney Stratigraphic Analysis Report, by Robyn Stocks

Report on Coins Found on First Government House Site, by Pat Boland

Conservation of artefacts, First Government House, Sydney, by Kerry Head

The First Government House Site Ceramics Assemblage: Analysis of selected levels 1788-1969, by Wendy Thorp

Building Materials Analysis First Government House Site, Sydney, by Sue Pearson

Animal Bones from First Government House Site, Sydney by Sarah Colley

Analysis of Small Finds from the Excavations of First Government House Site, Sydney, by Alexandra Kelly

Preliminary Analysis of Clay Tobacco Pipes from the First Government House Site, Sydney, by G.C. Wilson and A. Kelly

Analysis of Glass Artefacts from the Excavations of First Government House, Sydney, by Brian Egloff and Jean Smith

Brian J Egloff, Principal Archaeologist AN UTECH

CONTENTS

PART I Coins Found on First Government House Site 1. General

2. Methodology

3. Significance of Coins

4. Annexures Provided

5. Conclusions

Revised list of First Government House Coins

List of coins found - arranged in chronological order.

1

1

1

2

2

4

6

PART II Brief Notes on the Development of a Monetary System in the Colony of

New South Wales during the First Government House Period

1. Introduction 1 6

2. Money and the First Fleet 16

3. Colonial Treasury Problems

4. The Beginnings of a Local Economy

5. Governor King's Proclamation of 1800

6. Spanish Dollars and the Colonial Economy

7. The Place of Barter in the Economy

8. The Role of the Commissariat Store

9. Private Promissory Notes

17

17

18

18

19

19

20

10. Government Notes, Receipts and Bills 21

11. "Currency" vs "Sterling" 21

12. General Aspects of the Economy up to the Governorship

of Macquarie 21

13. Macquarie's Monetary Reforms 22

14. Brisbane's Dollar Standard 23

15. The Establishment of a Sterling System of Currency 25

Appendix A Table of Prices 27

Bibliography 28

PART Ill Anecdotes Relating to Early Currency 29

PART IV Numismatic Notes on Each Reported Coin 32

Figure Archaeoological grid reference

PART I COINS FOUND ON FIRST GOVERNMENT HOUSE SITE

SECTION 1 GENERAL

31 coins and one medalette were found during excavations on this site. The

major problem from the numismatic aspect is that the coins, having been stolen from

the site office in Young Street, have not been available to me for physical

examination. Consequently, enlarged photographs have had to serve in lieu, which

has not been a satisfactory alternative as many of the coins were heavily corroded.

SECTION 2 METHODOLOGY

To augment the information available from photographs, a reference collection

of old, well worn coins of types expected on the site throughout its life was set up.

This enabled diameters of coins to be checked against photographic scales shown,

a critical factor in establishing denomination. It also allowed comparison between

design elements visible in photographs with a number of variably worn coins of the

suspected type and denomination.

All information contained in the excavation reports on Special Finds was

carefully examined, and then related to the photographs and reference collection of

worn coins.

On this basis all coins have been identified with a high degree of probability that

these identifications are correct. In the absence of the coins themselves these

identifications, which are fully compatible with what we might expect from this site are

the best that can be done. I am confident however, that they are correct.

SECTION 3 SIGNIFICANCE OF COINS

These coins represent casual losses over the area of the site, and throughout its

various occupational phases. When lost, they were of little value, and so probably

not worth ( in the eyes of the losers) a serious search being made.

}he occupation of the site since 1788 is satisfactorily illustrated throughout by

the coins found, but their random distribution suggest little to me in view of my limited

understanding of the site. It is for this reason that in arranging the coins "

chronologically I have included a column relating to First Government House

chronology, for completion by someone much more familiar with the site than I am.

This will enable that person to evaluate the significance of each coin to its particular

site, from my notes.

1

SECTION 4 ANNEXURES PROVIDED

These annexures have been provided:

a) Revised list of coins found on the First Governmen,t House site:

This list correctly identifies coins found to their locations, and relates each

Special Find number with a numismatic sequence number, thus :ill N27

b) List of coins arranged in Chronological order:

Coins are listed in straight chronological order, from earliest to latest, and

with Special Find numbers related to numismatic sequence numbers thus:

~

N 1

A full description is given of each coin, together with detailed notes, find

location, probable period in circulation, and relative First Government

House chronology.

c) Special Find excavation reports: These have been returned, with detailed

comments on each coin added.

d) Photographs:

These have been returned, with numismatic sequence numbers added

together with identification (where possible) of obverse/reverse sides of

coins.

e) Precis on Monetary Development:

To provide background in writing up the coins, I have prepared a fairly

comprehensive survey of the monetary development throughout the life of

the First Government House, during the period 1788-1851.

f) Anecdotes:

A few significant anecdotes are included.

SECTION 5 CONCLUSIONS I do not think that the coins found on the site will add greatly to your

understanding o1 it. Nor do they add to our know\edge o1 the monetary system

in New South Wales. They serve however, to illustrate the story of monetary

forms in New South Wales, which coincides with the life of First Government

2

House. We should also keep in mind that many of the important decisions taken

in respect of the development of the early colonial monetary system would have

been taken in this building. It is then, from a numismatic point of view, a most

important building - indeed, it is the birthplace of the Australian Monetary

System.

3

Revised list of First Government House Coins after Numismatic examination of photographs and reports

__________ , ___________________________________________ _ Special Find No. LOCATION

ill N27

ill N5

Q1l N22

050 N14

~ N17

069 N9

QL8. N6

079 N4

Q..8A N15

Qru. N28

Q.a2 N26

093 N24

Q.9A N19

~ N23

Qa6. N29

16R8N/S/2

40R1 0/5

16R8N/S/2

34R24/2

22R8/8

24R6/3

22R8/17

14-15R8/7

40R34/1

41 R12/6 (6B)

as above

as above

as above

as above

as above

NUMISMATIC DESCRIPTION

Australia: Elizabeth II : Halfpenny, 1954. Perth Mint.

Great Britain :George Ill :Fourth issue Halfpenny, 1806. Soho Mint, Birmingham.

Australia: George VI :Threepence, 1943. Mints: Melbourne, San Francisco, Denver.

Great Britain : Victoria: "Second Head" Sixpence, 1873. London Mint.

Great Britain :Victoria: "Old Head" Threepence, 1900. London Mint.

Great Britain: Penny of bronze issue from 1860. London Mint.

Great Britain: George IV: Second issue Halfpenny (1825-1827). London Mint.

Great Britain: George Ill: Third issue Halfpenny 1799. Soho Mint, Birmingham.

Great Britain: Victoria: Threepence, 1876. London Mint.

Australia: Elizabeth II : Penny 1955-1964 issue (Perth or Melbourne).

Australia: George VI : Penny, 1952. (Perth or Melbourne).

Australia: George VI: Halfpenny, 1946. Perth Mint.

Australia: George V: Sixpence, 1921. (Sydney or Melbourne).

Australia: George VI: Threepence, 1944. San Francisco Mint.

Australia: Elizabeth II: Threepence, 1957. Melbourne Mint.

4

Q.a1 as above Australia: George VI: Threepence, 1938. N20 Melbourne Mint.

Q.9.a as above Australia: George VI: Threepence, 1951. N25 (Melbourne or London).

109 36R36/1 0 Australia: George VI: Halfpenny, 1942. N21 Bombay Mint.

12.Q 38R5-6 /5 Great Britain: Victoria: "Young Head" bronze N13 Penny, 1872. London Mint.

143 34R36/8 Great Britain: Victoria "Old Head" Halfpenny, N16 1896. London Mint.

12.a 28R14/4 Great Britain: George II: "Young Head" N1 Farthing, (1730 - 1739), London Mint.

172 24R9/7 Great Britain: George II: "Young Head" N2 Farthing (1730 - 1739) London Mint.

2.Q1 38R1 0/2 France: Second Empire: Napoleon Ill. 5 N12 centimes 1862.

ill 36R5-6 Great Britain: William IV: Threepence N8 trench/3 (1834- 1837). Probably a contemporary

counterfeit.

234 28R6/14 Great Britain: Penny, bronze issue, from N10 1860.London Mint.

2..5A 28R6/30 Great Britain: George Ill: 3rd issue Farthing, N3 1799. Soho Mint, Birmingham.

285 M34R-M38R1 0 Great Britain: George IV: Second issue Half-N7 surface penny (1825-1827). London Mint.

2.8..6. as above Probably a religious medalette (eg. "St N32 Christopher" etc).

287 as above Australia: Elizabeth II: Two cents, 1978. N31 Canberra Mint.

z.aa as above Great Britain?: Possibly, a bronze issue N11 Farthing, from 1860 forward.

293 14R1 0/1 Australia: Elizabeth II: Penny, 1961. Perth N30 Mint.

~ bike parking Australia: Edward VII: Threepence, 1910. N18 area surface London Mint.

5

Special .Eilli1~ Numismatic sequence-

1.6..a N1

liZ N2

~ N3

List of Coins Found-Arranged In Chronological Order

Numismatic Description

Where found on Site

Great Britain: 28R14/4 George II. "Young Head" farthing (1730-1739) n.d. Royal Mint, London.

Great Britain: 24R9/7 George II. "Young Head" farthing (1730-1739) n.d. Royal Mint, London

Great Britain: George Ill. Third issue farthing, 1799. Soho Mint, Birmingham

28R6/30

6

Probable Relative FGH Chronology Period in Circulation

C1788 to C1816

C1788 to C1816

C1800 to C1827

During the second half of the 18th Century very little silver or copper coinage was minted. Consequently coins of earlier rulers still circulated at the time of the departure of the First Fleet, in 1787. Copper coins of George II were still in common usage, and would have been carried privately in the First Fleet. Farthings of this type would have formed part of the currency used in the earliest days of settlement at Sydney Cove. When copper coins were recalled by Governor Macquarie for re-issue at face value, old coins such as this would have been withdrawn from circulation because of their worn condition. It is likely that coins of this type circulated between 1800 and 1816 at the enhanced local value of a halfpenny, as Macquarie's proclamation stated that coins bearing dates before 1800 would be redeemed within a specified period at a premium above face value.

As Above, but see CONTEXT note in excavation report regarding critical level (for dating purposes) in which this Coin was found.

On 20 November, 1800 a shipment of £300 worth of farthings of the 1799 issue arrived at Port Jackson for Government, aboad Royal Admiral. Whilst there is no evidence to this effect, it appears that, as a recognised fraction of the 1797 penny (which is the "copper coin of one ounce" which Governor King proclaimed on 19 November 1800 to have a local value of twopence) that they too had an enhanced local value, and passed current as halfpennies. This view is supported by Governor Macquarie's proclamat­ion of 1816 calling in all copper coins in circulation for re-issue at face value, wherein it is stated that coins bearing dates before 1800 would be redeemed by Government at a premium above their face value.

QZ.a N4

Q.15. N5

Great Britain: George Ill. Third issue halfpenny, 1799 Soho Mint, Birmingham

14-15R8/7 C1800 to C1827

Great Britain: 40R 10/5 C1826 to C1868

George Ill. Fourth issue halfpenny 1806. Soho Mint, Birmingham.

7

Re-issued at face value in 1817, coins of this type would have remained in circulation until fresh supplies mainly of the 1806/1807 copper coinage, arrived in the Colony aboard the ships Brothers in 1826 (£2,01 0) and Marquis of Hastings in 1827 (£1,000). Although this coinage itself was "old" well circulated specie, it would gradually have replaced the older, heavier coinage of 1799. It is interesting to note that this 1799 issue was produced for the British Government under contract by Mathew Boulton at his Soho (Birmingham) Mint, using the first steam powered coining presses, designed and manufactured by James Watt. During the period of Governor Brisbane's attempt to introduce a Spanish Dollar Standard ( 1822-26) it was intended to use halfpennies as "cents". It is doubtful however that they ever did so in the market place.

As above except: £350 in half­pennies arrived via Royal Admiral on 20 November, 1800. An enhanced local value of one penny probably applied during period 1800-1816. It reverted back to its face value 1st January, 1817. During the period of Governor Brisbane's attempt to introduce a Spanish Dollar Standard (1822-26) it was intended to use halfpennies as "cents". It is doubtful however that they ever did so in the market place.

Although small quantities of these coins were no doubt brought into the colony through trade from their time of issue 1806-1807, they did not appear in any quantity until 1826 and 1827 when shipments of "old" coinage were received by Govern­ment via Brothers (£2,01 0) and Marquis of Hastings (£1 ,000) respectively. It is probable that these cargoes largely comprised Boulton's pence, halfpence and farthings of the 1806-1807 issue. which were being superseded in England by the copper coinage of George IV beginning in 1821 . With the possible exception of coins of this type which circulated in the colony in 1806/07- 1816 these coins circulated at face value. Coins of this type probably circulated despite their by this time worn cond-

il2a N6

~ N7

2..1.5. N8

Great Britain: 22R8/17 George IV. Second issue halfpenny (n.d.) 1825-1827. Royal Mint, London

Great Britain: George IV. Second issue halfpenny (n.d.) 1825-1827. Royal Mint, London

M34R M38R10 surface

Great Britain: 36R5-6 William IV. Threepence trench/3 (n.d.) 1834-1837 contemporary counterfeit

8

C1826 to C1868

C1826 to C1868

C1834-37 into early Victorian period

ition, until circa 1868, when the lighter Imperial bronze coinage which commenced in England in 1860 began to be distributed through the Sydney Branch of the Royal Mint, and exchanges made for old coinage and certain classes of Colonial tokens.

Coins of this type would have begun to appear in the colony within a relatively short time of their issue in England, as a result of trade. As the new coinage of William IV began to appear in England from 1831, quantities of these coins of an earlier ruler would be withdrawn from circulation, and used in official shipments to overseas colonies such as New South Wales. Always circulated at only their face value in this colony, they would have rapidly been displaced from circulation by issues of the new Imperial bronze coinage of 1860 made by the Sydney Branch of the Royal Mint, from 1868 onward .

Coins of this type would have begun to appear in the Colony within a relatively short time of their issue in England, as a result of trade As the new coinage of William IV began to appear in England from 1831, quantities of these coins of an earlier ruler would be withdrawn from circulation, and used in official shipments to overseas Colonies such as New South Wales. Always circulating only at their face value in this Colony, they would have rapidly been displaced from circulation by issues of the new Imperial bronze coinage of 1860 made by the Sydney Branch of the Royal Mint, from 1868 onward.

Whilst these coins were primarily struck for use in the West Indies, they would have been accepted at face value in New South Wales as an Imperial Coin. This particular coin seems to be a contemporary counter feit of base metal, silver washed. If it is a local counterfeit a wider circulation than the West Indies may be assume as a local counterfeiter is more likely t• attempt to reproduce a familiar coin than an unusual coin, which would invite close attention by its unfamiliar appearance. A counterfeit such as this which relies on a

~ N9

2..l1 N10

2.aa N11

---------Great Britain: 24R6/3 Bronze issue penny (n.d.) from 1860 forward. Royal Mint London

Great Britain: 28R6/14 Bronze issue penny (n.d.) from 1860 forward. Royal Mint London

Great Britain ?: M34R This may possibly be M38R10 a bronze issue farthing surface from 1860 forward.

9

C1868 to C1911

C1868 to C1911

C1868-?

surface wash or plating to pass as silver, is not likely to have had an extended circulating life and would soon be discovered and withdrawn from circulation.

Although this is a bronze, Imperial issue penny of the series that com­menced in 1860, it is not possible to identify or attribute it to a ruler. It could equally be either a "Young Head" or "Old Head" issue of Victoria; or a penny of Edward VII. Its likely period in circulation is bounded by the first issue of this series from the Sydney Branch of the Royal Mint in 1868, and by the appearance of Commonwealth of Australia pennies of distinctive type, from 1911 onwards.

Although this is a bronze, Imperial issue penny of the series that com­menced in 1860, it is not possible to identify or attribute it to a ruler. It could equally be either a "Young Head or "Old Head" issue of Victoria; or a penny of Edward VII. Its likely period in circulation is bounded by the first issue of this series from the Sydney Branch of Royal Mint in 1868; and by the appearance of Commonwealth of Australia pennies of distinctive type, from 1911 onwards.

If this is a bronze issue farthing of the series which commenced in 1860, it could equally be either a "Young Head" or an "Old Head" farthing of Victoria. Although the use of farthings as circulating coins in New South Wales had generally been discarded by the late 1840's it was still a coin which could circu­late in its right as an official English coin. The circulation of these coins even in a restricted form beyond 1900, is very doubtful. The opening date 1868 has been selected as the year in which the Sydney Branch of the Royal Mint commenced issuing the new Imperial bronze coinage of the 1860 issue.

2.Q1 N12

France: Second Empire 38 R 1 0/2 Napoleon Ill. 5 Centimes 1862

C1862 to C1868

It is likely that this coin served as a halfpenny token between the date of its issue (1862) and 1868, when the use of tokens as a supplemen­tary copper coinage was prohibited in NSW. During the token issue period (1852-1868 in NSW) foreign copper coins which approximated the dimensions of halfpennies and pennies, were accepted as tokens for these denominations on the same basis as Australia tokens. It is not unusual to find foreign copper coins used in this context, but their numbers do not appear to have been significant and their entry into circulation more by accident than design.

.1.2Q N13

---------------------------------

Q2Q N14

Great Britain: Victoria: Bronze issue Penny, 1872 Royal Mint, London

Great Britain: Victoria: sixpence "Second Head", 1873 Royal Mint, London

-------·-----------------

38R5-6/5

34R24/2

1 0

C1872 to C1911

C1873 to C1911

Although struck at the Royal Mint, London, this coin probably entered circulation in Austtralia through the Sydney Branch of the Royal Mint which, from 1868, was responsible for the distribution of Imperial coin­age. The condition of this coin (apart from corrosion) suggests that it had a fairly limited circulation before it was lost. In any case, English copper & silver coins were displaced fairly rapidly in the initial stages of the introduction of the Commonwealth of Australia coinage in 1911. It was still possible however to find Imperial coins of Victoria circulating alongside the distinctive Australian coinage until the middle 1930's.

Although struck at the Royal Mint, London, this coin probably entered circulation in Australia through the Sydney Branch of the Royal Mint which, from 1868, was responsible for the distribution of Imperial coin­age. The condition of this coin (apart from corrosion) suggests that it had a fairly limited circulation before it was lost. In any case, English copper & silver coins were displaced fairly rapidly in the initial stages of the introduction of the Commonwealth of Australia coinage in 1911. It was still possible however to find Imperial coins of Victoria circulating alongside the distinctive Australian coinage until the middle 1930's.

w N15

~ N16

~ N17

19..0. N18

Q.9.1 N19

Great Britain: Victoria: Threepence, 1876 Royal Mint, London

Great Britain: Victoria: "Old Head" halfpenny, 1896 Royal Mint, London

Great Britain: Victoria: "Old Head" threepence, 1900 Royal Mint, London

Australia: Edward VII: threepence, 1910 Royal Mint, London

Australia: George V: sixpence, 1921. Sydney or Melbourne Mints

40R34/1

34R36/8

22R8/8

C1876 to C1911

C1896 to C1911

C1900 to C1911

Bike parking C 191 0 area- surface to

C1940

41 R12/6 (6B)

1 1

C1921 to C1950

The comments given for Special Find 120/N13 apply generally to this 1876 threepence. From its general condition (apart from corr­osion) it seems to have been in circulation for a lengthy period prior to its loss.

The comments given for SpeCial Find 120/N 13 apply generally to this 1896 halfpenny. From its general condition (apart from cor­rosion) it seems to have been in circulation for a lengthy period prior to its loss.

The comments made in respect of 120/N 13 apply generally to this 1900 threepence. Corrosion aside this coin appears to have had moderate circulation before its loss.

The first coins of the Common­wealth of Austtralia were the set of fo1 silver coins comprising threepence, sixpence, shilling and florin, which were struck for Edward VII in the year of his death, 1910. These coins were only struck in this year and circulated posthumously in

Australia. As "one year'' coins, they are key pieces in putting together an Australian "type set". The obverse design was by George William de Saules, and the reverse design by W.H.J. Blakemore. A total of 4 million 191 0 threepences were struck at the Royal Mint, London. By 1940 it was unusual to find three­pences of Edward VII in circulation.

A total of 3,795,288 sixpences were struck in 1921 by the Sydney and Melbourne Branch Mints. It is not possible however, to attribute coins to particular mints. The obverse design featuring a robed, crowned bust of George V is by Sir Edgar Bertram Mackennal, an Australian sculptor who achieved eminence in his profession in England in the first decades of the 20th century. Mackennal is best known to resi­dents of Sydney for the two bronze statues of servicemen of the Great War, which adorn the Cenatoph in Martin Place. By 1950 most sixpen­ces of George V still in circulation were of the last decade of his reign c1926-36. The earlier sixpences

.Q.9.1 N20

.1..0..9. N21

.Q1l N22

Australia: George VI: threepence 1938. Melbourne Mint

Australia: George VI: halfpenny 1942. Bombay Mint, India.

41 R12/6 (6B)

36R36/1 0

C1938 to C1966

C1942 to C1966

Australia: 16R8 N/S/2 C 1943 George VI: threepence, to 1943. Melbourne, C1966 Denver (USA) San Francisco (USA) mints

12

had largely disappeared. Coins of this latter period were still circulating but in greatly reduced numbers, when decimal currency was introduced in 1966.

Although George VI unexpectedly · came to the throne at the end of 1936, with the exception of Crown coins struck at the Melbourne Branch Mint in 1937, no other circulating Australian coins were minted in that year. This gave opportunity to the Australian Government to introduce new coin­age designs, a proposal which had been under consideration for some time. The obverse design of the new 1938 threepence was by Thomas Humphrey Paget, and the reverse by George Kruger Gray. A total of 4,560,000 threepences dated 1938 were struck at the Melbourne Branch Mint, involving radical changes from traditional/ design.

This coin illustrates the heavy pressures put upon all aspects of Australian manufacturing industries by the Second World War. By 1942 neither Perth nor Melbourne Branch Mints could meet the demands placed on them to produce suffi­cient copper coinage to meet the needs of the wartime economy, which were exacerbated by the arrival of great numbers of United States and other Allied servicemen. In 1942 and 1943 orders for copper coinage were placed additionally with Bombay Branch Mint, in India. This situation had also arisen in 1916, when London was unable to provide copper coinage for Australia during the Great War; and Calcutta Branch Mint produced Australian copper coinage during 1916, 1917 1918. A total of 6,000,000 half­pennies dated 1942 were produced for Australia at the Bombay Branch Mint. The obverse of this coin was designed by Thomas Humphrey Paget, and the reverse by George Kruger Grey.

Due to wartime economic pressures Melbourne Branch Mint was unable to meet coinage needs in silver coins, and between 1942 and 1944 the Denver and San Francisco branches of the United States Mint produced large quantities of

.Q.9..5. N23

Q.9..3. N24

Q.9..a N25

.Q..92 N26

ill N27

Australia: George VI: threepence, 1944. San Francisco (USA) Mint

Australia: George VI: halfpenny, 1946, Perth Mint

Australia: George VI: threepence, 1951. Melbourne or Royal Mint, London

Australia: George VI: penny, 1952 Melbourne or Perth Mints.

Australia: Elizabeth II: halfpenny 1954. Perth Mint

41 R12/6 (6B)

41 R12/6 (6B)

41 R12/6 (6B)

41 R 12/6 (6B)

C1944 to C1966

C1946 to C1966

C1951 to C1966

C1952 to C1966

16R8N/S/2 C1954

1 3

to C1966

Australian silver coins in conjunction with Melbourne. Production figures for 1943 threepences were: Melbourne 24,912,000, San Francisco: 8,000,000, Denver: 16,000,000. Coins of this type were circulating extensively until phased out after decimal currency was intro­duced in 1966 .

San Francisco was the only mint to strike threepences in 1944; and a total of 32,000,000 Australian three­pences were struck. Coins of this type were still circulating extensively until phased out after the introduc­ion of decimal currency in 1966.

Struck only at Perth Branch Mint, a total of 13,747,200 halfpennies dated 1946 were issued, a baro­meter of Australia's early post-war economic growth. These coins were still in general circulation until phased out by decimal cu rrency after 1966.

In 1946 the content of Australian silver coins was reduced from sterling silver (925 fine) to a compo­sition of 50% silver (500 fine) 40% copper, 5% zinc and 5% nickel. For the first time since 1915, the Royal Mint London struck Australian threepences; and for the first time since the close of the mint of Roman London in the 4th Century A.D. the mint mark PL signifying "struck at Londinium", appeared once more. A total of 40,000,000 threepences dated 1951 were struck for Australia in London and a further 15,856,000 were struck at the Melbourne Branch Mint. These coins were phased out after decimal currency was introduced in 1966.

This coin was struck in the year that George VI died and Elizabeth II ascended the throne. A total of 21,240,000 pennies dated 1952 were struck at Melbourne Branch Mint, and a further 12,408,000 at Perth Branch Mint. These coins were phased out after decimal curr­ency was introduced in 1966.

See comments below .Q91/N28 for details of "F.D." controversy. This is one of the "Faithless" coins which contains no reference to the title 'Defender of the Faith'. For some inexplicable reason although the

Q.9.1 N28

m N29

~ N30

------2..6.1 N31

Australia: Elizabeth II: penny (n.d.) "F.D. restored" issue, 1955-1964 Perth or Melbourne Mints

Australia: Elizabeth II: threepence 1957. Melbourne Mint

Australia: Elizabeth II: penny, 1961. Perth Mint

Australia: Elizabeth II: two cents 1978. Royal Australian Mint, Canberra

41 R12/6 (6B)

41 R12/6 (6B)

14R10/1

M34R-M38R-10 surface

14

C1955 to C1966

C1957 to C1966

C1961 to C1966

C1978 to C1984

title was restored to pennies in 1955 it was not restored to halfpennies until1959. A total of 21,962,880 halfpennies were minted at Perth Branch mint in 1954. These coins circulated until phased out by decimal currency in 1966.

When the new coinage was intro­duced for Elizabeth II in 1953, it was noted that the letters "F.D." repre­senting the ancient title "Defender of the Faith" had been dropped from the obverse legend. As a result of public outcry, these letters were restored in the 1955 issue; remaining as part of the Royal Styles and Titles until 1964 when the last pennies were issued. This coin shows the letters "F.D" so that it may be dated between 1955 and 1964. The obverse design by Mrs Mary Gillick, whilst the reverse design is by George Kruger Gray continued on from the issues of George VI. Pennies of this issue were struck either at Perth or Melbourne Branch Mints.

In 1957, 26,704,000 threepences were struck at the Melbourne Branch Mint. These coins remained in circulation until phased out by decimal currency.

A total of 30,607,200 pennies were struck at the Perth Branch Mint in 1961. These coins remained in circulation until phased out by decimal currency in 1966.

This, the latest coin in the FGH series, represents the introduction of decimal currency into Australia and the demise of the traditional coinage based upon English models, which had been the norm since the time of the First Settle­ment. This coin was struck at the new national mint, the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra, which is a Mint in its own right, and not a branch of the Royal Mint, London. In 1978, 88,253,000 Two Cents pieces were struck at Canberra. This serves to illustrate less the econ­omic growth of Australia, than the fact that Australian copper coinage was of so little practical value that vast quantities were withdrawn from circulation not by Government action, but by the public simply hoarding them until a sufficient

~ N32

Probably a religious medalette, perhaps of St Christopher type.

M34R­M38R-10 surface

Unknown

quantity had been amassed, to make exchange for higher denomin­ations worth while. The obverse design of this coinage is by Arnold Machin, and the reverse by Stuart Devlin.

This piece is reminiscent of the white metai"St Christopher" religious medallions popular throughout the 18th, 19th and first half of the 20th centuries. Medal­ettes of this type were usually strung on a cord or narrow ribbon, and worn around the neck. The odds are more in favour of a medalette of this type being of Roman Catholic origin, than any other religious denomination.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

15

PART II BRIEF NOTES ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MONETARY SYSTEM IN

THE COLONY OF NEW SOUTH WALES DURING THE FIRST GOVERNMENT HOUSE PERIOD.

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

The history of currency in New South Wales during the era of the First

Government House may conveniently be divided into three periods. The first

extended from 1788 to 1822, the second from 1822 to 1829, and the third from

1829 to 1 851 .

The first period was an age of barter supplemented by token money in the

form of coins with enhanced local value, and notes in the form of private

promissory notes and Government Authorised bills of exchange or receipts. The

second of these periods was marked by supremacy of the Spanish Dollar as the

actual standard and measure of value; whilst the third saw the gradual

emergence of a sterling standard based upon the British system.

SECTION 2 MONEY AND THE FIRST FLEET

The complex monetary system which evolved in New South Wales over the

first half century of its existence, was the direct result of failure by the British

Government to make provision for adequate supplies of coinage to be sent out with the First Fleet. The need to set up a Treasury in the new settlement was not

recognised at the planning stage; the view being that as the proposed settlement

at Botany Bay was to be an open, self supporting goal, money would not be

necessary.

In fact, a sum of thirty pounds only, in Netherlands gold ducats was

supplied to Phillip "to pay Dutch Officers at the ports of call". Supplies were

purchased at both Rio and the Cape with Bills drawn on the British Treasury,

which were official guarantees of payment by the British Government.

There was no official prohibition on money being brought to the new

settlement, and those who had the capacity to do so no doubt availed

themselves of this opportunity to the best of their ability. Money certainly did

arrive in New South Wales with the First Fleet, probably in this fashion:

a) carried privately by individuals, both bond and free; and

b) in ships' chest or treasuries in the normal fashion, to enable supplies to

be purchased, and port fees to be paid in transit.

16

This first money was principally in the form of coinage, although no doubt

some bank notes were also present. Generally, this coinage would have

combined current, circulating English coins with relatively old coins, as very little silver or copper coinage was minted in the last half of the 18th Century.

Counterfeits among the copper coins would have been common, but tolerated for convenience sake in view of the general shortage of coined money.

An important element in this limited coinage was the Spanish dollar and its

fractions, which were acceptable in trade throughout the world at that time. For

this reason they were popular with ships' masters and merchants, and thus

particularly susceptible to removal from the local economy.

SECTION 3 COLONIAL TREASURY PROBLEMS

From the outset, the lack of a local treasury raised problems which should

have been foreseen when the expedition was set up. The first of these problems

arose in the first weeks of settlement, when Phillip, unable to pay carpenters and

sawyers from Sirius and Supply for work done ashore, was forced to pay these

men with bills drawn on the British Treasury in London, an expedient which was

unsatisfactory to both parties.

SECTION 4 THE BEGINNINGS OF A LOCAL ECONOMY:

Even before the hired transports of the First Fleet had been discharged

from Government service and sent back to England, a ship to shore trade had

developed between those who were leaving, and those who were staying.

These transactions relied either upon barter or money, or a combination of both.

Presently, ships were calling with investments for sale. The masters of

these ships sold their goods only for money which, in their estimation, was good

outside the colony. English coins, and foreign coins in gold and silver were

accepted, but Government Bills on either the British Treasury or the Navy Board

were preferred. Coins given in change by these ships' masters naturally ended

up in circulation within the colony, and within a relatively short period the local

currency was enriched by Netherland ducats, Indian mohurs, rupees and

"pagodas", Spanish dollars and their fractions, Portugese "Johannas" and "half

Johannas", and other exotic specie in gold and silver.

However, for any coin to remain in circulation within the colony, its J..Q.Qal ~ had to be superior to its metallic value or exchange rate outside the

colony.

1 7

SECTION 5 GOVERNOR KING'S PROCLAMATION OF 1800

To retain coinage in the colony, the tactic employed by the early governors was to "cry up" the value of coins locally, and to formally notify these exchange rates by

proclamations. The first of these proclamations was made in 1791, setting the value

of Spanish dollars at five shillings. Other proclamations followed throughout

succeeding years in reaction to economic circumstances, but the best known of

these proclamations was that of Governor King, in November, 1800. Following upon

the importation of large amounts of English copper coins, King issued a proclamation

based upon a valuation of five shillings for a Spanish dollar, in which a selection of

coins in circulation in the colony at that time were listed, with their equivalent value in

English denominations.

This proclamation gave these relative values:

£. s. d.

A Guinea 1. 2. 0

A Johanna 4. 0. 0

A Half do 2.0. 0

A Ducat 0. 9. 6

A Gold Mohur 1. 17. 6

A Pagoda 0.8.0

A Spanish Dollar 0. 5. 0

A Rupee 0.2.6

A Dutch Guilder 0. 2. 0

An English Shilling 0. 1. 1

A copper coin of one ounce 0. 0. 2

Other coins not mentioned could however, easily be related to these rates of

exchange.

SECTION 6 SPANISH DOLLARS AND THE COLONIAL ECONOMY

Spanish dollars, the most sought after of coins because of their international

acceptance in trade, were generally over-valued in New South Wales against the

world market, in an effort by local traders and merchants to obtain them for import

purchases. Collins, writing in September, 1791 has this to say:

18

" The Spanish dollar was the current coin of the colony which some of the

masters (of ships) taking at 5's (five shillings) others at 4's 6d (four shillings and

sixpence), the Governor in consideration of the officers having been obliged to

receive it (Spanish dollars) at 5's sterling when given for bills in the settlement

issued a proclamation fixing the currency of the Spanish dollar at that sum".

This action by the Governor would not have unduly worried the ships'

masters concerned, who would simply have increased the price of their goods

accordingly. There was no way that masters with badly needed goods to sell in

the colony, were going to accept coinage at a local exchange rate which was

inflated by world standards.

SECTION 7 THE PLACE OF BARTER IN THE ECONOMY

There is a tendency to over-rate the importance of coinage in the early

economy of the colony, and to overlook the critical role played by barter as a

component of currency. In the early years, when the struggle for survival was

paramount, there were limited opportunities for trade. What trade existed was

usually of a minor, internal nature, and conducted largely by barter with perhaps

cash adjustment. It was not until the colony began to produce its own foodstuffs

and to send these and other products to the Commissariat Store that more

sophisticated means of exchange developed. Generally, storable wheat and

meat (including kangaroo meat) were prime staples of barter, as these items

could be traded with ships requiring re-victualling. The status of rum is much

exaggerated. It was simply another popular element of barter which, because of

its preferred status as a luxury item, was always acceptable as an element of any

transaction. Sugar and tobacco were equally sought after, as was pork. These

items however, generally formed part only of any exchange by barter.

SECTION 8 THE ROLE OF THE COMMISSARIAT STORE

The importance of the Commissariat Store in the early economic history of

the colony is often overlooked. From its beginnings in 1788 as no more than a

simple quartermaster's store issuing rations and stores to convicts and their

keepers, it had, by 1803, developed into a quasi-banking establishment of

considerable sophistication, even though much of its business was conducted in

kind rather than cash.

It issued store receipts to producers for stores supplied. These receipts

were regularly traded from hand to hand as reliable currency, and to all intents

acted as banknotes within the colony. They differed only from bank notes in that

19

they were seldom issued for whole amounts, but were broken amounts

reflecting the nature of the transactions for which they were issued.

These store receipts were regularly called in for consolidation, and bills of

Exchange on the British Treasury issued in lieu to holders. The Commissariat

made loans in kind, charged interest, kept accounts for individuals recording

deposits and withdrawals, and even making provision for credit balances to be

transferred to other branches of the Commissariat. Briefly, during Macquaries'

governorship, the Commissariat actually issued its own notes for fixed amounts,

but authority for this was withdrawn.

SECTION 9 PRIVATE PROMISSORY NOTES

The custom of issuing private promissory notes was common in England at

the time of the First Fleet, and their use, particularly for relatively small sums,

rapidly took hold in the early settlement. They differed from bank notes in that,

similar to the Commissariat store receipts, they were generally for broken

amounts, originating in a particular transaction. Before long, they became an

important component of the colony's financial system; being traded from hand to

hand, and performing the functions of bank notes of low denominations.

The critical factor in their acceptance was the public credibility of the

drawer; but this did not stop their issuance and acceptance by all levels of the

Community. However, when for example, a Bill of Exchange on the British

Treasury countersigned by the Governor circulated side by side with a

promissory note scribbled by a convict on a dirty piece of paper, there had to be

separate scales of reckoning against which the differing degrees of public

confidence between these notes, could be measured.

Private notes were often discounted by recipients, the degree of discount

being related directly to the perceived credibility of the drawer. They were

widely forged; were written often on the poorest paper with expectation that they

would disintegrate before the drawer was called upon to redeem them; and

watered ink was frequently used to assist in making them illegible, for the same

reason.

As their value was generally expressed in "currency" terms rather than

"sterling", it was common for drawers to refuse to convert their notes to "sterling"

unless they were substantially discounted. Governor Bligh in fact noted that

these discounts by drawers often ranged between 25% and 40% of the

"currency" value of the notes concerned.

20

SECTION 10 GOVERNMENT NOTES, RECEIPTS AND BILLS

Whilst not so widespread in use as private promissory notes, but of infinitely

greater public acceptability, were the receipts issued by the Commissariat Store

and the various Bills of Exchange issued by Government upon the British

Treasury, the Navy Board, and later, by Military paymasters upon Regimental

Agents in England. In contrast to private issues, official issues did not suffer from

discounting, and in fact usually attracted a premium when sold, as they enabled

buyers to obtain sterling credits overseas, with which desirable goods could be

imported into the colony for resale.

SECTION 11 "CURRENCY" VS "STERLING"

It was the need to distinguish between levels of financial credibility and

acceptance of monetary forms for external trade, that led to the use of the terms

"currency" and "sterling" to describe these differences in values. "Currency"

meant a medium of exchange having local circulation only, often of limited

acceptability, and therefore subject to variable discounting by the person or

organisation to whom it was proffered. In the first 25 years of settlement

"currency" meant primarily copper coin, promissory notes, and at times wheat, or

other items of barter. On the other hand, "sterling" simply meant good, reliable

money from any source, acceptable for external trade, and having a recognised

equivalence to English monetary standards, and thus free from arbitrary

discounting. It was simply the value of this form of money for imports, that made

it "sterling".

Prices of goods varied according to the form of payment proffered,

preference being given to buyers offering payment in "sterling" over those

offering payment in "currency".

SECTION 12 GENERAL ASPECTS OF THE ECONOMY UP TO THE

GOVERNORSHIP OF MACQUARIE

Once supplies of local produce were assured and the threat of famine past,

private enterprise flourished as the ranks of free settlers and time expired

convicts grew. New South Wales was still however, a society organised as an

odd mixture of private enterprise within a gaol system.

For some 20 years, up to the governorship of Macquarie, these two

basically contradictory principles operated without undue friction; free enterprise

being sufficiently employed in supplying its products through the Commissariat

to the gaol, for conflict to arise.

21

In Macquarie's time however, other developments such as the discovery of

large tracts of good land, and woolgrowing, opened up new horizons and

resources, and assured the future of the colony. In time, conflict inevitably arose

between the interests of the gaol system and those of free enterprise. This

eventually led to opposition to the continuance of transportation, by capitalist

interests, who naturally saw this as a brake to progress.

SECTION 13 MACQUARIE'S MONETARY REFORMS

Macquarie early became concerned at the form of the monetary system as

it existed, considering it open to abuse and ineffective, and as such, impeding

the development of a stable economy which would foster the growth of the

colony. As he saw it, these things needed to be done:

a) The privileged position as regard trade which had been enjoyed by the

officer class since the earliest days of settlement, could not be maintained;

b) Adequate supplies of coined money must be made available and

retained within the colony;

c) Curtailment of the indiscriminate issuing of promissory notes; and

d) The establishment of a colonial bank and associated banking system.

Macquarie achieved these aims, in essence by:

a) The replacement of the New South Wales Corps by his own 73rd

Regiment, and its return to England for other employment. This, to a great

degree, broke the long established monopoly of trade by the officers of the

New South Wales Corps;

b) Issuing, in 1814, about 40,000 Spanish dollars from which the centre

had been removed on his orders. These "Colonial", "holey" or "ring" dollars

circulated at the local value of five shillings, and the central plug or "dump"

which had been struck out of the centre of each dollar was in turn used as a

coin with the local value of fifteen pence, or one fourth of the value of a

"colonial" dollar. As the Spanish dollar (before mutilation) was worth from

four shillings and ninepence to five shillings in trade, it was certainly not

worth the value of five shillings bestowed on it by Macquarie after a

substantial amount of silver had been removed from its centre.

Macquarie's plan to initiate a local coinage which could be retained in the

colony was reinforced by legislation providing severe penalties for its

export, and requiring ships' masters to enter into a monetary bond that they

would not receive it for export. Whilst his plan to restrict the export of his

new coinage was successful, the coins themselves were not popular

22

locally, particularly the "holey" dollar. Macquarie also recalled, in 1816, all

copper coins dated earlier than 1800, which were still circulating at a

premium above face value, and re-issued them to circulate at their face value only.

c) By legislating in 1813 (31st December) that thereafter the issue or

negotiation of private promissory notes for any sum of money under two

shillings and sixpence would be unlawful and relying on the increased

coinage in circulation and the establishment of a colonial bank, to reduce

the necessity for these notes to be issued at all.

d) Establishing, in 1817, the first colonial bank to operate in Australia, the Bank of New South Wales.

Free at last of the near monopoly of trade previously exercised by the

officer corps, an active merchant class, having a considerable stake in the future

of New South Wales under a free enterprise system, emerged. The conflict of

interests between the penal settlement advocates on the one hand, and

capitalism on the other, became more sharply defined. The replacement of

Macquarie by Brisbane marked the end of the old monetary system based on

barter and token money, which had evolved to meet the needs of the settlement between the years 1788-1822.

SECTION 14 BRISBANE'S DOLLAR STANDARD

The history of Brisbane's attempt to introduce the Spanish dollar as the

standard of value in the colony is complex indeed and too difficult in its

intricacies to cover in a brief discussion such as this. The scheme seems to

have originated with the Colonial Secretary, Major Goulburn, and Commissariat

Officials rather than with Brisbane himself. None-the-less, the Governor

championed the scheme vigorously in public statements. Its origin seems to

stem from mutual distrust between the Commissariat and the Bank of New

South Wales, each of which viewed the operation of the other with some

suspicion; combined with a strong belief on the part of Commissariat officials of

the supremacy of the Spanish dollar. Brisbane himself waxed lyrical on the

benefits to mankind bestowed by the Spanish dollar, in a reply to a petition on

the subject, which appeared in the Sydney Gazette on 30th August, 1822. The

scheme was not "thought through" from the outset and proceeded from one

crisis to the next, each succeeding proclamation endeavoring to patch up the

problems created by its predecessor. The result was financial and commercial

chaos between "currency" and "sterling" until late in 1825 when the problem

was solved by the British Government, which decreed the immediate institution

23

of a sterling standard with a fixed rate of exchange, throughout Britain and the

Empire. The period of "funny money" had come to an end in New South Wales,

and the British pound sterling reigned supreme.

However, before this happy state of affairs came to pass, the colony ·

passed through a harrowing period financially as Brisbane and his officials

wrestled with the problem of instituting a dollar standard in New South Wales.

The first step in implementing the plan was to place sufficient specie in

circulation for coinage to be readily available for transactions in lieu of barter,

and also Macquarie's Colonial coinage and promissory notes. To this end,

government imported some 84,000 dollars initially in early 1822. At the same

time large scale imports of dollars were made by speculators, and by 1826 it

was reported that some 400,000 Spanish dollars were in circulation in the

colony.

Basically, Brisbane's plan was to establish a metallic currency based on

Spanish dollars, in which the basic unit was to be English copper coins, passing

in the colony at the rate of one cent to each hal fpenny. This seems to have been

one of the basic miscalculations, as a dollar at the traditional value in the colony

of five shi llings wou ld have contained 120 halfpence masquerading as cents;

this represented a further devaluation of the existing copper coinage. On the

other hand, at the bullion value of a Spanish dollar at four shillings and two

pence, the number of halfpence/cents contained in a dollar was the requisite

100 cents.

No formal announcement was made of government's intentions, and

dollars imported into the colony officially passed into circulation through the

Agency of the Commissariat at the local value of five shillings paid for produce

and goods sold to the Commissariat, which was still the biggest buyer in the

colony. The catch wa~ that when those same dollars were proffered at the

Commissariat for purchase of produce or goods, or for any form of payment to

government, they were only received at the rate of four shillings and twopence,

which was the going rate in sterling for bullion purposes. The Bank of New

South Wales in fact refused to accept dollars in transactions, until a specific

value was fixed by government.

Steps were taken to prohibit barter as a form of currency within the colony;

and "holey" dollars and "dumps" were demonetised over a period. The "holey"

dollar was later reintroduced at the rate which related to "whole" Spanish

dollars. Public accounts were required to be kept in dollars; and salaries paid

from colonial revenue were discounted by prescribing an exchange rate of five

Spanish dollars for each pound ster\ing.

24

The problems facing the colony as a whole can best be seen from this

example: the same dollar which was paid out by government.

a) at five shillings for its own purchases;

b) at 1our shi\\ings and eight pence to the military; and

c) at four shillings to public officials for salaries

was received back by government at a fluctuating exchange rate. To make

things worse, the Bank of New South Wales and many traders, would not

receive the dollar at more than four shillings exchange value.

Brisbane finally appointed a Committee to determine the fixed rate at which

all the public offices should receive and pay the Spanish dollar. On 21

September 1824 the Committee recommended that the dollar should pass at

the value of four shillings and fourpence, the British halfpenny and shilling to

pass at one and 20 "cents" respectively, and the colonial "dump" and "holey"

dollar at 25 "cents" and 75 "cents" respectively.

It was further proclaimed in 1824 that promissory notes and bills of

exchange should be payable in Spanish dollars, and it was estimated that the

total amount of British silver and copper money in the colony, together, did not

amount to more than about 400 pounds sterling. Brisbane's aims had been

achieved to the extent that the great mass of coinage circulating in the colony

was now mainly in the form of Spanish dollars, British Coinage having been

"driven out" by adverse exchange rates. This system was however, not destined

to come into full effect; and whilst the mechanism for its replacement by a

"sterling" system was already being prepared in London, the local supremacy of

the Spanish dollar was to remain until 1829. The second period of the colony's

developing monetary system thus spills over into the third and last period for the

purposes of this study.

SECTION 15 THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A STERLING SYSTEM OF

CURRENCY

In 1825 the British Government brought forward legislation introducing

British silver coins into general circulation in the colonies, and this scheme was

proclaimed in New South Wales on 12th July, 1826. This act repealed the Act of

1824 in respect of Spanish dollar values for notes and bills; prohibited the issue

of new notes of a lesser denomination than 20 shillings; and required that the

value of a Spanish dollar be set at four shillings and fourpence.

However, whilst dollars were over-valued by about 4% locally above their

intrinsic worth of four shillings and twopence, they continued to displace British

· coins. The shopkeepers and merchants of Sydney took matters into their own

25

hands, and in a remarkable show of solidarity resolved, on 23 November, 1829

to receive Spanish dollars and Indian rupees only at the rate of four shillings and

twopence, and one shilling and ninepence respectively_. The exchange rate was

again reduced in Sydney to four shillings for each Spal}ish dollar, and as a

result of this arbitrary local action, the greater part of foreign silver coins

circulating in the colony were withdrawn by speculators, and exported chiefly to

Mauritius, where more favorable exchange notes prevailed.

The effect of this was to establish British sterling as the dominant currency

in the colony; to the extent that by 1831 the local banks held 100,000 pounds in

British coin, whilst another 30,000 pounds was estimated to be in circulation.

Although now firmly in place, the sterling currency which lasted well

beyond the era of the First Government House had major crises to weather in its

early years. The final years of the First Government House era witnessed the

inflation of 1839 which followed the abolition of assignment of convicts to free

settlers in 1838, and which lasted until 1841. In the following years the

cessation of British expenditure upon the convict system after the abolition of

transportation in 1840 caused a depression which lasted until the discovery of

gold in New South Wales in 1851, and the subsequent economic revival of the

colony.

26

APPENDIX A TABLE OF PRICES· COMPILED BY DR W.J.D. MIRA

1793:

Wages:

Potatoes:

Ewes:

Wethers:

Mutton:

Kangaroo Meat:

~ Cloaks:

Men's hats:

Men's shoes:

Women's shoes:

Needles:

Thread:

Brandy/rum:

Tea Pot:

Cup & Saucer:

Bengal Soap:

Dungaree:

Wheat:

Maise:

Green Tea

27

tradesman -5/- per day

laborer -31- per day

1 0/- per cwt.

6-8 guineas

4-5 guineas.

2/6 per pound

4d per pound

31- to 51-each

4/6 each

3/6 pair

3/6 pair

8/- per 1000

8/- per pound

51- per bottle

6d to 2/6

6d to 1 Od

1/2d per pound

2/- per yard

1 0/-per bushel.

51- per bushel

6/- to 10/- per pound

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Hyman, Coleman P., 1893. An account of the coins, coinage and currency of

Australasia, Sydney.

Chalmers, R., 1893. History of Currency in the British Colonies. London.

Andrews, Dr. A., 1921. Australian Tokens+ coins. Sydney.

Butlin, S.J., 1953 and 1986. Foundations of the Australian Monetary System.

Melbourne, Sydney.

Mira, W.J.D., 1981. Coinage and Currency in New South Wales 1788-1829 and an

Index of Currency References in The Sydney Gazette. Sydney.

McDonald, Greg., 1983. Rigby's Australian Coin and Banknote Guide. Sydney.

Seaby., 1984. Coins of England and the United Kingdom - standard catalogue of

British Coins, Volume 2. 20th Edition. London.

28

PART Ill ANECDOTES RELATING TO EARLY CURRENCY IN NEW SOUTH WALES (Note: Not arranged in order of occurrence)

1. Some of the earliest ships sold relatively large amounts of goods e.g. Royal

Admiral in September 1792 disposed of £3,600 worth of goods, and left £750

worth on consignment, for future sale. (Collins 1792).

2. "Mary Burns was robbed of dollars to the amount of 11 pounds" - (Collins 1792).

3. "The convicts have been seen playing at their favorite games (cribbage and all

fours) for six, eight and ten dollars each game; and those who were not experts

at these, instead of pence, tossed up for dollars." (Collins 1794).

Note: Possibly the earliest reference to TWO UP in Australia?

4. "Several articles having been brought for sale in the Marquis Cornwallis a

shop was opened on shore. As money or orders on, or by, any of the

responsible officers of the colony, were taken at this shop for goods, an

opportunity was afforded to some of the knowings ones among the prisoners to

play off not only base money (as counterfeit dollars and rupees) but forged

notes and orders". (Collins, 1796).

5. "The rent of the premises will be received one half in pork; one fourth in wheat

and corn; and the remaining fourth in money." (King to Camden, 30 April,

1805).

6. Sydney Gazette, 1 May 1803 advertises for a lost promissory note which

promised "the payment of £20 in storable wheat and £5 in storable maize."

7. "The farmers who raise corn, pork, etc, deliver it into the Government

storehouses, and receive promissory notes for the amount of each delivery;

these notes then circulate until they fall into the hands of the officers and other

traders (for an officer in this fifth division of the globe is nothing more than a

dealer): these people pay them again to the Captains and officers of the ships

who bring investments, who carry these bills to the Commissirary who gives

them bills upon the Treasury for the whole amount." (John Black to his father, 8

September, 1798).

8. "The officers have the libercy of issuing bills from 1 s (one shilling) to £100, and

seldom pay in specie; but in general such promissory notes, for all purchases

which they make." (Bond- A Brief Account of the Colony of Port Jackson- 4th

edition, 1806).

"---

29

9. In the Sydney Gazette of 25 December, 1813 John Birch warns the public

against continuing to accept halves of his pay notes with figures on one half,

and written amounts on the other. This meant that Birch's liability for

redemption of his notes may have been regarded by· recipients as having been

doubled. Certainly it amounted to 1 00% profit for the· person who after

separating the two halves of the notes, managed to pass them as full notes in

trade.

10. "They have also taken notes knowing they were of no value and paid them

away to their labourers whilst they kept such as were safe." (Biaxland evidence

- Bigge manuscript Evidence).

11 . In September, 1828, the vault of the Bank of Australia was entered and robbed

by means of a subterranean tunnel driven from one side of George Street to the

wall of the vault. A large amount of money in dollars, British silver coin and

Bank notes ranging from £1 to £50 was stolen. A number of sovereigns were

overlooked (Hyman, page 65).

12. On 5 August, 1787 the First Fleet lay awaiting entry to Rio De Janiero, and was

surrounded by small craft selling produce. Some of the convicts took the

opportunity of passing counterfeit coin, which caused uproar among the

peddlars. To maintain the good name of the Fleet, Phillip caused them to be

reimbursed forthwith. Upon investigation it was found that Thomas Barrett and

two others aboard the convict transport Charlotte had counterfeited Spanish

coin whilst on route from Teneriffe. Surgeon White writes "They had been

coined with great ingenuity and address out of old buckles, buttons belonging

to the marines, and pewter spoons ...... the impression, milling and character; in

a word, the whole was so inimitably executed, that had their metal been a little

better, the fraud, I am convinced, would have passed undetected. How they

managed this business without discovery is a matter of inexpressible surprise to

me, as they never were suffered to come near a fire, and a centinel (sic) was

constantly placed over their hatchway, which, one would imagine, rendered it

impossible for either fire or fused metal to be conveyed into their apartments.

The droitness therefore, with which they must have managed, in order to

complete a business that required so complicated process, gave me a high

opinion of their ingenuity, cunning, caution and address; and I could not help

wishing that these qualities had been employed to more laudable purposes".

Note: For stealing supplies, Thomas Barrett was executed on 27 February,

1788, the first execution to be carried out in the Colony of New South Wales.

30

13. In August, 1788, a convict named Dailey reported that he had found a gold

mine, and produced as a sample of its ore, a stone flecked with yellow

particles. Upon examination by a silversmith it was found to contain

particles of gold. Dailey attempted to bargain for return to Britain, but was

eventually forced to admit that he had created the supposed ore samples

from filings from a brass belt buckle and a gold guinea. He was also found

guilty of trying to defraud persons on the store ships of clothing and other

stores, in return for "gold dust". In a settlement striving to defeat famine, any

diversio.n from productive work for gold prospecting was serious indeed.

Dailey (who had already received 50 lashes) was given a further 300

lashes, and forced to were a canvas coat with a large broad "R" for rogue.

Some of the more simple minded convicts were not convinced however

that Dailey had not discovered gold, and the mischief remained for quite

some time to come. Hunter, White and Collins all related aspects of this

case.

31

PART IV NUMISMATIC NOTES ON EACH REPORTED COIN

Excavation reports on Special Finds (Coins) First Government House Site, with Numismatic Notes on each Report.

B/W neg. Nos. 2526- 26tt. Inclusive John Gillis Stage IV F.G.H. 5.tt .84 to 6.tt.84.

Coins

FILE 390

SPECIAL FIND NO. 014 t6 R8 N/S 2 2/7/83 Gojack Godfrey base of 2 above 3. t5.8R 9.9 Depth t.46. Plan 2 t954 Halfpenny

Photos Lindy B/W 250/25t t3/7/83 before treatment 3/8/83 after treatment. Studio Gillis 5.1t.84 Col St. Rolltt: t3-t7 neg, B/W RollS: tt-t2 neg 2566-7 Conserv Notes incl. photo t3/7/83 before conserve. BIW

3/8/83 after. col. (good) enlarged.

Context Tin shed demolition rubble. deposited t969. Tin shed: t9t2- t969 2 a mixed purple-brown sandy soil below bitumen for carpark constructed t969 extensive layer covering most of site in various forms.

Numismatic Comments: No photographs supplied. No English halfpennies issued for t954 -Australian issue. Australia: Elizabeth II : Halfpenny, t954. (Perth Mint).

SPECIAL FIND NO. 015 40Rt 0 5 2/7/83. Lautrec. 39.80Rt 0.56 Depth 2.545 Plan 5 2/7/83 t806 British Penny No. 28mm Diam = t /2 copper alloy.

Photos Before treatment t3/7/83 B/W 248-9 Lindy After treatment 3/8/83

Studio Gillis 5.tt.84 Col. St. Roll t 0 : 3t-36 Col. St. Roll tt : t-6 B/W. RollS: 5-8. Neg 2560-63

Conservators Notes incl. photo before t3/7/83 incl. photo after 3/8/83.

"England, penny t806, circulated freely but without legal status" -is this true? No - Legal British coin-full status in N.S.W. Diam: 28mm

32

Context Tin shed 1912-1969, footings and pipes pre-1960's. 5 -a layer of green-brown sand with pieces of clay. Small lens of limited

extent. In this area of this site the Tin Shed construction cut into many early layers,

incl. F.G.H. outbuilding and drains.

Numismatic comments: Photos not supplied. Not penny as stated - 28mm Diameter= 1/2 d. Coin did have full legal status in colony of NSW as British coin. GREAT BRITAIN: George Ill :Fourth issue Halfpenny (Soho Mint), 1806.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 017 16R8 N/S 2 3/7/87 Gojak (found in seives 3D). plot not taken. Not planned. 1943 Threepence, good condition.

Photos: Lindy B/W 252,253 13/7/83. Before treatment 3/8/87 After treatment

Studio Gillis 6.11.84 Col. S1 Roll 14 : 0-6 B/W Roll10: 9-10 Neg. 2604-5

Conservators Notes: Incl. both photos of Lindy Diam : 15.5mm Width: 0.75 mm Weight: 1.41 g Silver alloy Sterling 925 fine

Context Tin shed demolition rubble deposited 1969. Tin shed: 1912 - 1969.

2 mixed purple - brown sandy soil below bitumen for carpark constructed 1969. Extensive layer covering most of site in various forms.

Numismatic Comments: Photographs not supplied. From Conservation notes it appears that it is of Australian origin. Australian threepences were struck at Melbourne, San Francisco, and Denver (Colorado) Mints in 1943.

AUSTRALIA: George VI :Threepence, 1943.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 050 34R24 2 22/7/83 Wade (in fill layer). 36.60R25.40 3cm below surface. 1873 British sixpence, head Young Queen Victoria.

Photos Lindy 3/8/83. After treatment. Studio Gillis 6.11.84 Col. S1 Roll 12 : 36

Roll13: 2-5 B/W Roll 9 : 15-18 Neg. 2590-93

33

Conservators Notes: Lindy's 3/8/83 photos.

Context Tin shed demolition rubble deposited 1969. Tin shed : 1912-1969.

2 Dark brown sandy clay with numerous large artefacts (building materials etc). Extensive layer over most of site in various forms.

Numismatic Comments: GREAT BRITAIN: Victoria: "Second head" Sixpence, 1873. Die No. (illegible) above date.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 065 22R8 8 27/7/83 Gojak. Found sieves no 3D location. No plan. 1900 ? possibly threepence

Photos: Studio Gillis. Col. S1. Roll 12 : 6-11 BNJ Roll 9: 19-20 Neg. 2594- 5

Conservators Notes photo Lindy? date.

Pass. Indian coin ? No -Great Britain. Diam. 17mm

Context In foundation fill for junction box but disturbed top part. fortin shed: C. 1912. (1912-1969) - original drainage system. (?). Fairly localized fill but continues unexcavated to south. 8 Mixture of grey-dark sandy clay and yellow-grey sticky clay. Dry pressed brick inclusions used in junction box.

Numismatic Comments: Great Britain: Victoria :"Old Head" Threepence, 1900.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 069 24R6 3 27/7/83 Mcintyre, Studds. Original thought from 4 but probably from 3 (Rain etc). On plan back of sheet 4 27/7/83.

Possible Penny.

Photos: Lindy? Studio Gillis 6.11.84 : Col S1. Roll 14 : 13-18

Conservators Notes Photos: Lindy ? Diam 30mm

BNJ Roll10: 13-14 Neg. 2608-9

34

Context 3/4 Found in Pink-brown sandy clay layer during time of heavy rains - ? context. However, 3+4 are of similar age and so should not be a problem in this analysis. Layers date :C. 1876- 1912 broadly speaking.

3+4 These are above the Mining Museum layers (c. 1876- 84); a later rubble "courtyard" surface. (C. 1876-1900) and a resurfacing layer of the "courtyard" (c. 1876-1900). (three layers only in SW part of site).

But these associations and dates of layers below 3+4 are subject to the analysis of the other finds. Above 3 is another layer 2 then again above is 1. 1 is Tin shed demolition - 1969.

Numismatic Comments: Photograph of little use. Diameter of 30mm. Supports views that coin is a post 1860 Penny of Great Britain, which was legal tender in Australia, and basic circulating copper coin.

GREAT BRITAIN: Penny of bronze coinage issue, from 1860.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 078 22 R8 17 6/8/83 Gojak. Found in sieves no 3D location Planned on feature 17 Corroded Penny. No Halfpenny- 28mm Diam = 1/2 d

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 5.11.84 Col S 1. Roll 11 : 24-31

B/W Roll 8 : 18-20 NeQ. 2573 - 5

Conservators Notes Photos: Lindy Diam: 28mm.

Context: Mixture of 7, 13, 14 and removed in haste from NW of the square.

7 "Courtyard" of sandstone rubble c. 1876- 1900 . -early in SW part of site. 13 Sediment covering parts of site during abandonment after demolition of F.G.H. in 1845. - 1845 0 1 84 7. 14 Demolition of outbuildings in 1845 (F.G.H.)

(FGH dates : 1788- 1845)

Numismatic Comments: Photograph has sufficient detail to identify coin. Date illegible. GREAT BRITAIN: George IV :Second issue Halfpenny, period 1825- 1827.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 079 SO 15-14 R8 7 7.8.83 Gojak, DeHorns. Found below brick fragment. 12.18R 8.15 Depth 1.805 Plan 7 1799 British penny. No: Halfpenny, even though 30mm Diam. "Britannia".

35

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 5.11.84 Col. S1 Roll 11: 18-23

8/W Roll 8: 13-14 Neg 2570

Conservators Notes Lindy Photo Diam: 30mm

Context 7 is a mottled layer with much brick rubble dating from the a) demolition of FGH in 1845 b) domestic refuse from after 1845 and deposited between 1845-1876. c) reworked and redeposited natural soil. Layers 6,7,8,9,10, are all parts of this mixed redeposition from c. 1845-1876. From the outbuildings area of FGH.

Numismatic Comment: No Pennies dated 1799 were issued. Supplied of halfpennies and farthings dated 1799 arrived in NSW aboard Royal Admiral 20 November, 1800. No further copper coins were supplied to Colony until 1826. Although not mentioned in Governor King's Proclamation of 19 November, 1800, these coins seem to have circulated at the enhanced values of one penny and one halfpenny respectively.

GREAT BRITAIN: George Ill :Third issue Halfpenny, 1799 (Soho Mint).

SPECIAL FIND NO 084. 40R34 1 11/8/83 M. Pearson. (recorded in notes of 40R32 1 5/8/83) Found in sieve no 3D location. No plan.

--76 Coin or token. "TO" Photos Studio Gillis 6.11.84 Col. S1. Roll 14 : 7-12

8/W Roll10:11-12 Neg.2606-7

Conservators Notes (no photo) Coin or token Loose surface inscription visible after cleaning : "TO" and "76". Diam 16mm

Context 1 is surface /top layer, modern, with gravel blinding for carpark (1969-1983) and rubble/demolition deposits (bulldozed flat) from the Tin Sheds (1912-1969) or earlier? Level includes service trenches, bitumen surface and soil deposits.

36

Numismatic Comments: Although it is not stated that coin is of silver, sufficient detail appears in photograph to determine (in conjunction with diameter quoted by Conservator) that coin is a Threepence, and that date must be 1876 by its reverse type.

GREAT BRITAIN: Victoria: Threepence, 1876.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 091 41 R12 (68) 14/8/83 Stocks inside drain (s-bend) with 091 - 099 together (8 coins, 1 button). No other 30 location Plan 6 Penny Australian Queen Elizabeth.

Photos Lindy? Studio Gillis: 5.11.84 Col. Slides Roll 9: 13-18

B/W Roll 7 ; 708 Neg. 2568-9

Conservators Notes Lindy Photo? Oiam: 31mm

Context 6 (68) in S-bend stoneware drain from Tin shed 1912-1969. This part of drain removed and contents investigated : 8 coins and 1 button. 091 - 099 inclusive.

Numismatic Comment: Sufficient evidence in photograph of obverse that coin is of "F.O." restored type, Post 1954

Australia: Elizabeth II : Penny , (date illegible) . 1955- 1964.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 092 41 R12 6 (68) 14/8/87 Stocks Inside S-bend drain with 091-099 together

(8 coins, 1 button).

No other 30 lac. Plain 6

1952 Australian Penny (warped)

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 5.11.84 Col. Sl. Roll9: 13-18

B/W Roll 7: 7-8 Neg. 2542-3 Conservators Notes: Lindy photo

Oiam 31mm Heavily corroded

37

Context: As for 091 1912-1969

Numismatic Comments: Photographs not seen, but Erxcavator's report quite clear. Either Perth or Melbourne Mints - Can't be determined on evidence given.

Australia: George VI: Penny, 1952 (either Perth or Melbourne issue).

SPECIAL FIND NO. 093 41 R12 6 (68} 14/8/83 Stocks Inside S-bend drain with 091-099 together

No other 30 loc. Plan 6

(8 coins, 1 button)

1946 Halfpenny Australian George IV - NO: George VI

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Oiam. 25mm

Col. Sl. B/W.

One side scraped to the base metal.

Context: As for 091 1912-1969

Numismatic Comment:

Roll11: 7-12 Roll 8 : 9-10 Neg. 2564-5

Photographs not seen. Excavator's report is quite clear however. 1946 issue by Perth Mint.

Australia: George VI: Halfpenny, 1946. Perth Mint.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 094 41 R12 6 (68} 14/8/83 Stocks Inside S-bend drain with 091-099 together

No other 30 loc. Plan 6

1921 Sixpence Australian

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis: 6.11.84

(8 coins, 1 button)

Col. Sl. B/W

38

Roll 12 : 30-35 Roll 9 :13-14Neg 2588-9

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam 20mm

Context: As for 091 1912-1969

Numismatic Comments: Photographs not seen: Excavator's report is quite clear however, although diameter should be 19mm. Issued by both Sydney and Melbourne Mints; no M/Mark.

Australia: George V: Sixpence, 1921. Sydney or Melbourne Mints.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 095 41 R12 6 (68) 14/8/83 Stocks Inside S-bend drain with 091-099 together

(8 coins, 1 button)

1944 Threepence Australian George V

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam. 16mm

Context: As for 091

Numismatic Comments:

No must be George VI

Col. Sl. 8/W

1912-1969

Roll13 :12-17 Roll 10 :1-2 Neg. 2596-7

Photographs not seen, but excavator's report clear. 1944 issues only by San Francisco Mint.

Australia: George VI : Threepence, 1944. San Francisco Mint.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 096 41 R12 6 (68) 14/8/83 Stocks Inside S-bend drain with 091-099 together.

No other 30 Loc. Plan 6

1957 Threepence Australian

39

(8 coins, 1 button)

Photos: Lindy Photo Studio Gillis 6.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam. 16mm

Context:

Col. Sl. 8/W

Roll 13 : 18-23 Roll 1 0 : 3-4 Neg. 2598-9

As for 091 1912-1969

Numismatic Comments: Photographs not seen. Excavator's report clear 1957 issue by Melbourne Mint.

Australia: Elizabeth II: Threepence, 1957. Melbourne Mint.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 097 41 R12 6 (68) 14/8/83 Stocks Inside S-bend drain with 091-099 together

No other 30 loc. Plan 6

1938 Threepence Australian

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam. 16mm

Context: As for 091

Numismatic Comments:

Col. Sl. 8/W

1912-1969

(8 coins, 1 button)

Roll 13 : 24-29 Roll 1 0 : 5-6 Neg 2600-1

Photographs not seen: Excavator's report adequate. Melbourne issuing Mint for 1938.

Australia: George VI: Threepence, 1938. Melbourne Mint.

40

SPECIAL FIND NO. 098 41 R12 6 (68) 14/8/83 Stocks InsideS-bend drain with 091-099 together

No other 3D loc. Plan 6

1951 Threepence Australian

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Col. Sol. BIW

Diam. 17 mm Should be 16mm

Context: As for 091 1912-1969

Numismatic Comments:

(8 coins, 1 button)

Roll 13 : 30-36 Roll ~0: 7-8 Neg. 2602-3

Photographs not seen. Excavator's report adequate. 1951 issues by Melbourne and London. In absence of Photograph Mint cannot be determined. Diam 16mm.

Australia: George VI: Threepence, 1951. Either Melbourne or London Mints.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 109 36R36 10 18/8/83 Wilson

34.50 R 37.98 Plan 10

Depth 0. 7850

1840? Poss. Halfpenny, Young Queen Victoria.

No: Would have to be 27.5mm Diameter- This coin probably 25.5mm

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam. 26mm

Context:

Col. Sl. B/W

Roll 11 : 22-37 Roll 9 : 1-2 Neg 2576-77

10 Hard packed bitumous deposit in SE corner of square, black, with pieces of same! brick and sandstone rubble. Probably fill for a driveway c. 1900-1969 (or possibly 1st half 20th Century.

41

Material in this layer could have originally come from shops that lined Bridge St. late C19th - c.1902 or from merchants '& carters' house/sheds along Phillip St. 1865-1883. Layer cut by tram cable.

Well below 10 is footings etc. of FGH built by Macquarie c1811 and demolition and abandonment layers. 10 has not dug into these in the excavated areas.

Numismatic Comments: Coin is heavily corroded. Diameter (by scale) = 25.5mm which corresponds to 20 Century halfpennies. However, distinctive edge "denticles" indicate Bombay Mint issue of 1942.

Australia: George VI :Halfpenny, 1942. Bombay Mint.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 120 38R5-6 5 24/8/83 Lautrec

3D location unknown No plan

1872 British penny. Victoria

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 5.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo (good)

Diam 31mm

Context:

Col. Sl. BNV

Roll10: 18-30 Roll 8 : 1-4 Neg. 2556-9

5 Purple-brown sandy rubble deposit, a demolition layer?, of unknown date. Possibly relating to the Mining Museum. c. 1876-1912. Broad range: 1845-c.1900 To the NW of the site.

Numismatic Comments:

Great Britain: Victoria, "Young Head" bronze Penny, 1872.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 143 34 R36 8 28/8/83 Actkan

32.32 R 36.45 Plan 8

Depth 0.990

1896 British Penny No: See Numismatic Comments

42

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 5.11.84 Col. Sl. Roll 8 : 24-29

B/W Roll 6 : 19-20 Neg. 2536-7

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam. 25 mm (Bronze issue Halfpenny Diam.)

Context: 8 Brown dirt mixed with red clay under blinding for 1969 carpark. Probable mixed fill for carpark construction 1969.

Numismatic Comments:

Great Britain: Victoria: "Old Head" Halfpenny, 1896.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 169 28R14 4 11/9/83 Gojak Found in Sieves Plan 4

Halfpenny? No Farthing at 23mm Diam

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6-11-84

Conservators Notes: Photo Lindy

Diam. 23mm

Col. Sl. B/W

No legible inscriptions found after cleaning

Context:

Roll12: 0-5 Roll 9 : 3-4 Neg. 2578-9

4 Grey brown sandy clay, a layer covering much of the SW part of the site & coming from the courtyard resurfacing c.1876-1900 above the mining museum layers.

Numismatic Comments: Photographs of little help as coin is heavily corroded. Diameter of 23mm indicates Farthing denomination, possibly "Young Head" issue of George II which corresponds. Wide circulation England at time of first fleet.

Great Britain: George II: "Young Head" Farthing issue of 1730-1739. Tentative Attribution.

43

SPECIAL FIND NO. 172 24R9 7 14/9/83 Gojak, Carry

22.94 R 9.175 Depth 2.025 Plan 7

Possible halfpenny? No-Probably Farthing

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6.11.84

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam 24mm

Col. Sl. B/VV

Badly corroded needed more cleaning

Context:

Roll12 : 6-11 Roll 9 :5-6 Neg. 2580-1

7 Was a layer of yellow-brown sand that was laid as sediment (or windblown sand?) on many parts of the site after the demolition of FGH approx. 1847-1860s.

*This is a crucial layer & a date for the coin would be excellent.

Numismatic Comment: Photo scales 23mm - 24mm does not fit readily into likely coinage range.

Coin too badly corroded to identify from Photograph, but if scaling is correct, Diameter of 23mm would accord with Farthing ("Young Head" type) of George II­A typical first fleet period coin.

Great Britain: George II. "Young Head" Farthing of issue 1730-1739. Tentative attribution only

SPECIAL FIND NO. 207 38R1 0 2 25/6/83 30/9/83 Lautrec No 3D Loc. No Plan

1862? coin

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis 6.11.84 Col. Sl.

B/VV

Conservators Notes: Lindy Photo

Diam. 25mm Needs more cleaning

44

Roll12:12-17 Roll 9 : 7-8 Neg. 2582-3

"Upon cleaning and coating an unusual inscription became visible. A central head & a single inscription around the coin enclosed with a line. Poss. the date 1862."

Context: 2 Purple-black sandy layer of Tin Shed demolition, with much rubble. 1969 (Tin Shed: 1912-1969)

Numismatic Comments: Photograph difficult to interpret due to extensive corrosion of coin. However, an inner circle of dots 3mm in from rim of coin + conservator's description indicates to me that this coin is very probably a French 5 centimes piece of Napoleon Ill. Date 1862 visible in correct position (6o'clock) and letters EON at 10 o'clock support this view. Several Australian tokens (halfpennies) including J Macgregor of Sydney (1868) are only 25mm in diameter, so that this French coin simply circulated as a token halfpenny until circa 1870. Tokens were demonetised in NSW in 1868 although they continued to circulate on a gradually contracting basis for some time after.

France: Second Empire: Napoleon Ill. 5 centimes, 1862.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 215 36R5-6 40cm trench 3 8/10/83 Lautrec No 3D loc. found sieving No plan

Possible threepence or button?

Photos: Lindy Studio Gillis: 5.11.84

Conservators Notes:

Col. Sl. 8/W

Roll 9 : 19-24 Roll 7 :9-1 0 Neg. 2544-

Diam 18mm Note: Scales 16mm on Photo

"Round metal object. Traces of "silver" paint upon cleaning it proves to be neither a coin nor a button. No inscriptions visible."

Context: 3 Black sandy loam & rubble used to level off area for carpark in 1969 and as the fills for ceramic drain pipes 4A & 48. Poss. Tin Shed or later c. 1912-1969.

Numismatic Comments: "Coin" so badly corroded that photos of little use. However, I am sure that bust of William IV can be seen. If 18mm Diameter shown by conservator is correct, it could be a Fourpence (Groat) 1836/1837.

45

If 16mm (as it scales) it could be a Threepence, issued for use in West Indies 1834-1837. Reference by conservator to traces "silver paint" could mean that the piece is of base metal, silver washed, so probably contemporary counterfeit coin. I am working on photograph scale (16mm) so attribute the piece as follows:

Great Britain: William IV: Threepence issued between 1834- 1837 primarily for use in West Indies. Possibly a contemporary counterfeit. Tentative Attribution

SPECIAL FIND NO. 234 2.8R6 14 23/10/83 Gojak, Jones coin on a pedestal of soil

26.14 R 8.32 Plan 14 ?

Depth 2.025

Penny

Photos: B/W 22/23 Col. 023/29

Studio Gillis 6.11.84 Col. Sl. B/W

Conservators Notes:

Facing nth

Roll 12 : 18-23 Roll 9 : 9-1 0 Neg. 2584-5

Diam 32mm Photo scales 30mm

Context: 14 Red-brown sandy clay. Lower part of resurfaced courtyard that covered much of the SW part of the site. (Above the Mining Museum Layers).

c.1876 - 1900

Numismatic Comments: Photographs of little use as coin so badly corroded, and discrepancy between conservator's 32mm diameter (which indicates possibly Young Head copper coinage Penny of Victoria - 1838-1860) and photo scale at 30mm, which indicates bronze issue 1860 onward. I have elected to accept photo scale for uniformity of working, which is also reinforced by appearance of letters PE at 2 o'clock on photo which does not appear on Rx. of earlier issue. Only one letter "E" can be seen on presumed obverse, and this is no help, as "E" appears on all pennies from 1860-1964. However, letters "PE" (part of word Penny) following clock-wise around the rim of the coin only appears between 1860-1910 (Victoria/Edward VII) on coins commonly used in Australia. After 1910, distinctive Australian designs used.

Great Britain: Victoria or Edward VII: Bronze issue coinage 1860-1910.

46

SPECIAL FIND NO. 254 28 R 6 30 6/12/83 Bickford With much black glass bottle frags in pit, West section, Nth end of square.

No other 30 lac. No plan

1799 Copper farthing

Photos: Studio Gillis: 5.11.84

No conservators notes

Context:

good condition

Col. Sl. B/W

23mm

Roll9: 1-6 Roll 7: 3-4 Neg 2538-9

30 Part of redeposited kitchen/outbuilding rubbish from FGH Phase I used as packing for Phase Ill construction, ie Wall 45

Deposited c. 1830 on 1845 Plan. (Originated pre c.1827/28)

Numismatic Comments:

Great Britain: George Ill: Farthing, 1799. Third issue Soho Mint. (See Notes for coin 079)

SPECIAL FIND NO. 285 M34R4- M38R1 0 9/3/84 Lautrec Surface above sandstone paving

No 30 lac.

No Plan.

1882 Coin Victoria British No - see numismatic comments

Photos: Studio Gillis 5.11 .84

No conservators notes

Context:

Col. Sl. B/W

Roll1 0 : 6-11 Roll 7 : 17-18 Neg. 2552-3

Surface of southern Phillip St Terraces near yard. Sandstone paving for Terraces. Terraces built. 1873-77

Coins approx. 1873-1984

Numismatic Comments: Photographs Not supplied. Insufficient information in excavation report to identify this coin. Photo now seen 30/6/87.

47

Great Britain: George IV: Second issue Halfpenny, 182? (1825-1827)

SPECIAL FIND NO. 286 M34 R 4 - M 38 R 1 0 9/3/84 Lautrec Surface above sandstone paving.

No 3D loc. No plan

Coin? 18mm Photo scale

Photos: Studio Gillis 5.11.84

No conservators notes

Context:

Col. Sl. 8/W

As for 285 1873-1984

Numismatic Comments:

Roll9: 31-36 Roll 7: 13-14 Neg. 2548

Too badly corroded to be reasonably attributed, particularly as metal type not stated. Diameter 18mm doesn't really agree with any denomination in English series. There does appear to be some evidence of a suspension loop on object, which inclines me to the belief that it may be a religious medalette of the well known "St Christopher" type, or similar.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 287 M34R4 - M38R1 0 9/3/84 Lautrec Surface above sandstone paving

No 3D loc. No plan

1978 2c Australian

Photos: Studio Gillis 5.11.84

No conservators notes

Context:

Col. Sl. 8/W

As for 285 1873-1984

Numismatic Comments:

Roll9: 7-12 Roll 7 :5-6 Neg. 2540-1

Excavator's report adequate for identification without photograph.

Australia: Elizabeth II: Two cents, 1978.

48

SPECIAL FIND NO. 288 M34R4- M38R10 Surface above sandstone paving

No 3D lac. No plan

Coin 19mm + Diam.

Photos: Studios Gillis 5.11.84

No conservators notes

Context:

Col. Sl. B/W

As for 285 1873-1984

Numismatic Comments:

9/3/84 Lautrec

Roll1 0: 0-5 Roll 7 : 15-16 Neg. 2550-1

This coin is so badly corroded as to prevent identification/reasonable attribution. Absence of information as to metal in excavator's report accentuates problem. If silver (which I doubt in view of extensive corrosion), it could be a sixpence of any period from George Ill onwards. If bronze, it could be a farthing of the bronze coinage from 1860. This would normally be 20mm diameter, but distortion of coin prevents a really accurate measurement. Extensive corrosion suggests a copper or bronze coin.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 293 14R1 0 1 13/3/84 Gojak Located in sieves

No 3D lac. No plan

Penny Australian 30.5 + Diameter

Photos: Studio Gillis: 5.11.84

No conservators notes

Context:

Col. Sl. BIW

Roll 10 : 12-17 Roll 7 : 19-20 Neg. 2554-5

1 Dark grey-brown sandy rubble deposit from the demolition of the Tin Shed 1969.

(Tin Shed: 1912-1969)

49

Numismatic Comments: Although heavily corroded, a date of 1961 can be faintly read in correct position for Australian penny. Diameter at 30.5mm +OK for Australian penny. Only issued by Perth Mint in 1961.

Australia: Elizabeth II: Penny, 1961. Perth Mint.

SPECIAL FIND NO. 490 Bike parking Area surface 10/4/84 Rhodes

No 3D Loc. No Plan

191 0 Threepence Australian Obv: Australian Coat of Arms Rev: Edward vs VII DG Britt. Omn: FD ind. Imp with head of Edward VII

Photos: Studio Gillis 5.11.84

No conservators notes

Context:

Col. Sl BNV

Surface: Recent Context

Roll9: 25-30 Roll 7: 11-12 Neg. 2546-7

1984

Finds discovered on surface prior to bulldozing slope for excavation at south end and to complete investigation of area.

Numismatic Comments: Report adequate to confirm identification without Photos.

Australia: Edward VII: Threepence, 1910. London Mint.

50

ion

nd

M44

R4

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Figure 1. Site map showing grid coordinates and the location of the designated areas.