£25.00
Copper token depicting Magdalen College School, Wainfleet, Lincolnshire on the obverse and the allegorical figure of Hope with anchor on the reverse. Issued c.1795. Reference: Dalton & Hamer 8a, edge reading “Warehouses”.
William Waynflete / Magdalen College School Token – Hope Reverse, D&H 8a (c.1795)
This late 18th-century copper token commemorates the Magdalen College School at Wainfleet, Lincolnshire, founded in 1459 by William Waynflete, Bishop of Winchester and Lord Chancellor of England. It forms part of the Provincial (Conder) Token series, issued during the 1790s in response to shortages of small change.
The obverse presents a central angled view of Magdalen College School, with the surrounding legend: FOUNDED BY WILLIAM WAYNEFLETE 1459. Designed and engraved by Thomas Wyon the Younger, it captures the historic architecture in fine detail.
The reverse shows the allegorical figure of Hope standing on a dockside, left arm resting on an anchor and right hand raised. A bale of goods lies behind her, with a sailing ship in the background symbolising trade and prosperity. Below is the date in exergue, with the legend around.
Specifications:
Date: c. 1795
Type: Provincial Token (Conder Token)
Denomination: ½d token (unofficial issue)
Metal: Copper
Weight: ~10 g (varies slightly by specimen)
Diameter: ~28 mm
Edge: Reads Warehouses
Mint/Issuer: Private issue (Provincial token)
Engraver: Thomas Wyon the Younger
Obverse: Magdalen College School, Wainfleet, legend “FOUNDED BY WILLIAM WAYNEFLETE 1459”
Reverse: Hope with anchor, ship sailing left, legend around, date in exergue
Reference: Dalton & Hamer 8a
A handsome example of a Conder Token, combining architectural and allegorical themes, this piece is collectable both for its artistry and for its connection to William Waynflete’s enduring legacy in English education.
