New Zealand c. 1862 Henry J. Hall, Christchurch Coffee Mills Penny Token

Issued around 1862, this copper one penny token was commissioned by Henry J. Hall, a prominent Christchurch grocer, wine and spirit merchant, and coffee mill operator. At a time when official coinage was scarce in New Zealand, Hall—like many colonial business owners—produced tokens to facilitate everyday trade. He arranged for two mints to strike his tokens: W.J. Taylor of London and Stokes of Melbourne. In total, Hall issued nineteen penny varieties and three halfpennies.

This particular token, struck in London, is simply designed, featuring only text without imagery. One side reads "H.J. Hall, Christchurch Coffee Mills," while the reverse states "Family Grocer, Wine & Spirit Merchant." These tokens offer insight into colonial enterprise and the economic adaptations of 19th-century New Zealand.