Love token
Convict Sydney
Love token, Smith
Joseph Smith arrived in New South Wales in April 1818, while Hyde Park Barracks was under construction
Convict Sydney
Love token, Daws
James Daws was convicted of stealing pennies (coins) in late 1825 or early 1826
Convict Sydney
Love token, Donovan
This very detailed token was probably made by a nineteen year old called Cornelius Donovan
Close to the heart
Expressions of love and endearment have long been embodied in keepsakes or jewellery worn or held close to the body
Convict Sydney
Love token, Woodcock
The simple lettering on this love token with his name on it suggests that John Woodcock may have engraved it himself, while he awaited his transportation
Joseph Smyth, cast for death
It’s extremely rare to find any personal possessions of the convicts who passed through Hyde Park Barracks between 1819 and 1848, but one small, very special object has recently surfaced
Convict Sydney
What are convict love tokens?
A convict love token is a coin that convicts gave to their loved ones before they were transported to NSW