LC-1 1815 Lower Canada, Magdelen Island Token ICCS Certified VG-8 BR #520

LC-1 1815 Lower Canada, Magdelen Island Token ICCS Certified VG-8 BR #520

The Magdalen Island Token was issued for use on the Magdalen Islands as well as throughout Lower Canada and the Maritime Provinces. Today, the Magdalen Islands form part of Quebec, though during the 18th century, their ownership was disputed between Labrador and Lower Canada. The Quebec Act of 1774 ultimately transferred the islands to Lower Canada, whose inhabitants were largely French.

In 1798, Sir Isaac Coffin, an officer of the Royal Navy, was granted ownership of the islands in recognition of his distinguished service. Coffin envisioned establishing a feudal-style system on the Magdalen Islands and had tokens struck for use by the local population. These coins were reportedly distributed during the only occasion he visited the islands. Although some accounts suggest that the tokens were not widely adopted by the islanders, surviving examples show considerable wear, indicating they did circulate. Few specimens exist today in higher grades

Specifications:
Composition: Copper
Weight: 17.1 to 18.8g
Diameter: 33.4 to 33.6mm
Edge: Engrailed
Alternate Reference Numbers: BR #520, HW #1, McL 23