Copper halfpenny produced by the Abolitionist movement and circulated circa 1790-97. This token bears the well-known abolitionist image of the kneeing slave with accompanying inscription. On the reverse of this medal a pair of clasped hands are encircled by the words ‘May Slavery & Oppression Cease Throughout the World’. The words ‘Payable in Lancaster London or Liverpool’ are inscribed around the rim.

In 1787 official copper coinage was in short supply and private firms throughout Britain struck pennies and halfpennies in a variety of designs. Designs used included famous persons, buildings, coats of arms, and political events. Abolitionist sentiments, as represented on this coin, were some of the most widely-circulated and instantly recognisable forms in late 18th century Britain.