LIBERTY & SECURITY

About This Coin

A series of 1795-dated tokens produced in Birmingham, England, featuring Washington's bust with the legend LIBERTY AND SECURITY. The series includes both penny and halfpenny denominations in various configurations. The halfpennies are distinguished by their edge inscriptions: Birmingham, London, and the rare "ASYLUM FOR THE OPPRESSED" edge reflecting America's role as a refuge. Pennies come in cord border and plain border varieties. These tokens were part of the prolific Birmingham token industry that produced commercial and commemorative pieces for international markets.