Malcomson Brothers, Portlaw, Co. Waterford, 1838-1854

DOC · Post by **DOC** » 11 Sep 2022 15:39

During the 1820’s , the Malcomson Brothers built a large cotton mill at Portlaw, Co. Waterford, on the Cloddagh River, a tributary of the River Suir. The factory was apparently highly successful until the American Civil War when supplies of cotton became difficult to obtain.

Malcomson Brothers are noteworthy from a numismatic point of view as issuers of cardboard tokens to their employees. These lacquered paper tokens were often called ‘leather money’ due to their appearance. The sound reputation of the Malcomson business meant that these tokens were readily accepted as payment by shopkeepers and tradespeople within the local district.

Denominations observed to date are for 4 Pence, 1 Shilling and a Half Crown, with dates in the range 1838-1854 and varieties in different colours. Here is an octagonal 4 Pence token, undated, with the signature of T.W. Brabazon.

DOC · Post by **DOC** » 18 Sep 2022 14:49

Here is an image of a 1 shilling token issued by Malcomson Brothers of Portlaw. The cardboard token is dated 1854 and signed by T.W. Brabazon.

DOC · Post by **DOC** » 02 Oct 2022 13:45

Here is an issued example of a Half Crown token, dated 1854, issued by Malcomson Brothers of Portlaw. In this case, both sides are identical and the cardboard token is signed by two different signatories.

DOC · Post by **DOC** » 22 Oct 2022 23:22

Unfinished, unissued tokens are also known which provide some information as to how the tokens were made. The tokens were printed on cardboard and subsequently cut out, assembled and lacquered. Here is an example of a cardboard strip containing the two faces of a half crown token.

DOC · Post by **DOC** » 29 Oct 2022 23:03

The Mayfield Factory, referenced on the tokens of Malcomson Brothers, was at time of construction, believed to be the largest single span building in the world. Here is an antique colour print of the factory.

Mac · Post by **Mac** » 02 Nov 2022 17:08

These tokens would sort of count as paper money!

DOC · Post by **DOC** » 06 Nov 2022 23:31

Yes, I think these tokens can be considered as paper money like the Ballykinlar and Knockmahon Mine Tokens. It is interesting to note that they were often described as “leather” money and this may be due to darkening of the lacquer finish over time which gave the appearance of leather.