Judaica / Zionism - Tasmania & New Zealand, Jewish Merchant Tokens, Mid-19th Century

Judaica / Zionism - Tasmania & New Zealand, Jewish Merchant Tokens, Mid-19th Century A rare and historically significant set of Jewish trade tokens issued by merchants active in Tasmania and New Zealand during the mid-19th century. These tokens were privately minted to serve as local currency substitutes during coin shortages in the British colonies and reflect the economic contribution of Jewish traders to Australasian commerce. The Four Token Types: 1. Lewis Abrahams – Draper, Liverpool Street, Hobart Town, Tasmania, 1855 Dealer in fabrics and sewing materials. Large variety: Weight: 13.321 g | Diameter: 32 mm Small variety: Weight: 6.418 g | Diameter: 25 mm 2. R. Josephs – New Town Toll Gate, Tasmania, 1855 Toll collector at the New Town gate. Large variety: Weight: 12.196 g | Diameter: 30 mm Small variety: Weight: 5.613 g | Diameter: 28 mm 3. I. Friedman – Pawnbroker, Argyle Street, Tasmania, 1857 A well-known pawnbroker operating in Hobart. Large variety: Weight: 14.373 g | Diameter: 30 mm Small variety: Weight: 6.291 g | Diameter: 25 mm 4. Lipman Levy – Fancy Goods Manufacturer, New Zealand, mid-19th century Maker of shoes, boots, and leather goods. Known variety: Weight: 15.598 g | Diameter: 25 mm This collection vividly illustrates the entrepreneurial spirit and community presence of Jewish settlers in Australasia during the 19th century.