Coins and medals
The numismatics collection features coins, tokens and commemorative medals representing Northampton, Northamptonshire and the wider world. The collection includes examples of most currency types found in Britain from 1000-1960.
How the collection started
Interest in numismatics was driven by initial founders of the museum, with local archaeologist Cowper donating roman coins from Duston in 1898.
Key objects from the collection
Coins
The coin collection focuses on Northampton Borough and the county of Northamptonshire, including examples of coinage minted within the county, coins found within the county and coins donated from local collectors. Key objects within this collection include Iron Age staters or early coins, relating to local tribes, a group of coins from Northampton Mint and the Sibbertoft Hoard from The Battle of Naseby, a decisive battle in the English Civil War.
Tokens
The tokens in the collection date from later periods of Northampton’s history. Dating from 1700-1950, they represent the development of the town following the Great Fire of Northampton in 1675 when local businesses became established enough to create their own tokens.
Medals
The medal collection comprises of commemorative medals with national and international significance. Dating from 1850-2000, they commemorate local sports, businesses, societies and historical events as well as various national and international events.
Where to see the coin and medal collection
Some coins are on display in History of Northampton Gallery 1, at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, telling the story of Northampton.
History of Northampton Gallery 1
Archaeology collections are also included in our online resources.
Online resources Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
Online resources Abington Park Museum
Research or enquire about the coins and medals collection
We welcome access to the collection through research visits, viewings and correspondence.
Research or enquire about the collection
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