What would you engrave on your love token? Which coin would you choose? It’s time to make the best use of your money, you know it makes cents.
Supposedly a practice around for centuries, the making of love tokens gained major popularity again in the 19th century when Victorian sentimentality mixed with frugality were at their height. Using readily available coins and sanding flat one side (usually leaving the monarch’s head in tact), a jeweller could then hand engrave the blank space with a loved one’s name, initial, monogram, date or intimate symbol. This could be turned into a pendant, charm bracelet, brooch or general keepsake.
Often elaborately decorated in the ornate Victorian style, these miniature works of art were an inexpensive but highly personal way to show affection.
I was recently contacted by a wonderful customer who introduced me to the concept of love tokens (I know, can you believe I wasn’t already aware of them?! I remedied my ignorance immediately of course). Obviously I was completely smitten with the idea and even more delighted when they requested several tokens engraved for family members and had access to an extensive coin collection. Inspired by some original Victorian designs, I went about designing then hand engraving a series of names and monograms with as much embellishment as I could fit on those tiny metal discs.
Through further research I found extravagant pieces where multiple tokens had been joined with links to create a family tree on a brooch or necklace. Others were treated like war medals or medallions. The versatility and possibilities for personalisation are tantalising! I suddenly understand coin collectors.
And so I was compelled to write this post in case you don’t already know about these glorious little heirlooms. Spread the word!
For the full making process check out my Instagram
