Joseph Baster's Devizes (Wiltshire) copper halfpenny token dated 1796. Obverse: A standing stag with legend: "I. BASTER. DEVIZES WILTS 1796". Reverse: Arms of the town of Devizes, consisting of a triple-towered castle with standards flying, enclosed in shield with legend: "THE ARMS OF THE TOWN OF DEVIZES". Diagonally milled edge. Issued by Joseph Baster. It was originally thought that he was a freeholder and brewer in Devizes, and the stag referred to his brewery, perhaps "The Stag", or "White Hart Brewery". However, it has been confirmed that Joseph Baster, who had a business at 1 Northgate Street, Devizes and extensive lime and tan pits locally, enjoyed a reputation for manufacturing quality breeches and gloves. He was a fell-monger, glove, breeches and gaiter maker. The stag may refer to the deer hide used in the manufacturing process. I am indebted to Jean Noble for confirmation of the issuer and additional information. Lovely collectable condition with some original lustre remaining, see photograph. D&H Wiltshire No: 2b. Diameter 30.0mm. EF+. £155.00 e-mail David at enquiries@abccoinsandtokens.com to order. |