17th century bronze Token from Faringdon

It was popular during the middle of the 17th century, after the Civil War had ended, for traders to advertise their wares or services with bronze tokens. These took the form of either a Farthing or Halfpenny in value, bearing the name, occupation and location of the trader. This could then be redeemed by the holder for the value of the token when making a purchase. 

The token we have is from Faringdon and is a Farthing in value. On one side it has the initials of T, S, M  - Mercer, Farringdon (sic). (A Mercer was a dealer in cloth and garments). On the other side it gives the name, Symon Turner in 1667

There are other known Faringdon Tokens; 

John Barrett a Candle Maker in 1656

Richard Fowler a heart shaped halfpenny from 1669

Thomas Shepard a farthing from 1668

Edward Stevens, Grocer, a farthing from 1652

There is also one known from the village of Longcot, a halfpenny with the name Albert Williams a Mercer from 1671