1787 ABOLITION & SLAVERY. Important Early Anti-Slavery William Wilberforce Penny Token.

Very desirable c.late 18th century 32 mm metal token inscribed with the what became known as the Negro's Plea, i.e. "Am I Not a Man and a Brother." The text surrounding a kneeling enslaved person in prayer, bound by chains.

The design was originally created for the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade and popularized by Josiah Wedgwood when he used it on his abolitionist Jasperware cameo medallions produced in the late 18th century. The image and phrase became popular among abolitionists including the American Anti-Slavery Society.

The reverse inscribed "Whatsoever Ye Would That Men Should Do To You, Do Ye Even So To Them."

At least two versions exist. There seems to be a 34mm version, produced in England which usually retains "pinched" edges from a gap in the minting process and having a broader external rim; and a 32mm edition, likely American, with a cleaner edge and usually bevelled on the rear lip between 6 and 12 o'clock, as our example is.

The UK version auctioned for $1,400 + commissions, i.e. c.$1,800 HERE.