Description
ND, Liverpool British Workman Public House Co Ltd, AE Token, W.2388, Owens 113a
The British Workman Public House Company in Liverpool was founded in 1875 by the temperance movement in response to the drunken behaviour of the lower classes. Within two years 18 premises known as ″Cocoa Rooms″ were opened, almost all in working class areas, and they were well patronised. The peak of the company′s operation was reached in 1907 when they had 69 cocoa rooms, 7 cafes, 7 kiosks, 1 coffee cart, plus their own bakery.
One of four die varieties recorded for this token. Worn but well detailed. Listed in Owens, Good For One Pennyworth Of Refreshment as Owens 113a and in Withers, Token Book 3 as W.2388. Ex Peter Lee Collection, Noonans, 22/4/26, lot 272 and previously ex B M Greenaway, DNW, 19/3/2003, lot 1150. Presented with Barry Greenaway’s old dealer ticket.
O: COCOA ROOMS / LIVERPOOL around BRITISH / WORKMAN / PUBLIC HOUSE / COMPANY / LIMITED.
R: Large “1” within a wreath.
I would grade this token Fine (Sheldon VF30) but I have provided high-resolution close up photos so you can decide on a grade for yourself.
For uncertified coins I provide a grading opinion using both the UK descriptive system and the Sheldon scale (based on ANA Grading Standards and/or PCGS Photograde) which will be better known to my US customers. I offer a grading opinion as a courtesy, but please examine the high resolution close up photos carefully and decide on a grade for yourself.
