Brief Summary… 

• 1937 – 1956 Farthing coins.
• Handcrafted using traditional tools and techniques
• Unique and Original
• Perfect for small sizes G, H, I, J, K, L
• Approx 5mm wide
• Wonderful vintage copper look and feel
• Inside of the ring is the heads side of the coin.  Tails outside.
• Handcrafted & Recycled in Cambridge

A little more detail…

Recycled ‘out of circulation’ Jenny wren Farthing coin

These unusual and completely unique rings have been crafted and transformed from old British Jenny Wren Farthing coin. When Searching through the enormous coin collection i have gathered over the years there are coins which just scream out at me ‘I want to be a ring’. These are the coins which have intesting ‘text’ and texture or an interesting metal composition. Many of the Farthings will have a relevant date to you or a loved one. However, irrespective of the date the farthing makes a sweet little ring packed with love and history

The specific art of looking at coins and turning them into lovely wearable, unusual rings began during the terrible world wars. Some artisan soilders would take these coins and transform them into rings for loved ones and to remind them of loved ones back ‘at home’. The resourcefulness of these soilders is admirable and inspiring. This resourceful intent has now resurfaced in my work as a silversmith with green ethics looking to create original and unusual wearable pieces of art. Trench art to recycled art.

The outside surface of the ring emblazons one side of the coin with much of its detail intact. This gives the rings a wonderfully interesting aspect and evident history. However the best part is the inside of the ring, where the other side of the coin is clearly visible. This hidden detail, for you, completes the circle. These ‘coin’ rings are available in a selection of dates. Approx 5 mm wide.

It is also worth remembering that the ring is made from a copper coin. Many people feel the positive effects of copper against the skin ** MORE INFORMATION HERE ** however when exerting yourself or bathing is preferable to remove the ring to prevent unnecessary oxidation or verdigris build up. If this occurs the ring is easily cleaned and refreshed with soapy water. To completely prevent skin contact it is permissible to coat the inside of the ring with a clear nail varnish or lacquer.

A Farthing for sure…

A farthing (derived from the Anglo-Saxon feorthing, a fourthling or fourth part) was a coin of England, Great Britain, and finally of the United Kingdom, worth one quarter of a penny, 1/960th of a pound sterling. Such coins were first minted in England in the 13th century, and continued to be used until 31 December 1960, when they ceased to be legal tender.

Most wrens are small and rather inconspicuous birds, except for their loud and often complex songs. Quite symbolic ! This lovely little coin looks even prettier when it has been hand cut, filed, hand carved with traditional flourish scrolls, polished. An old farthing coin given a fantastic new life as a pendant. A lovely, original pendant with a fantastic history and symbolism The wren, often diminutive in size, carries significant artistic symbolism, representing joy, renewal and cleverness. In Celtic lore, the wren’s song is seen as a message for the future and a reminder to embrace happiness.

Symbol of British Wildlife: The wren is one of the smallest and most widespread birds in the UK. Its presence in gardens and woodlands makes it a familiar, joyful sight for many people.  Aesthetically it was a wonderful choice for a small coin.

Joy and Happiness:The wren’s cheerful song is a consistent symbol of joy and a reminder to appreciate life’s happy moments.

Renewal and Hope:In Celtic tradition, the wren is associated with renewal, particularly around the winter solstice, and the cyclical nature of life.

Cultural Representation: The wren’s choice for the farthing coin symbolizes a connection to nature and the countryside, resonating with the British public’s appreciation for wildlife. It reflects out national identity that values the natural environment.

Ingenuity and Wit:Wrens are known for their cleverness and ability to overcome challenges, often outsmarting larger birds, symbolizing resourcefulness and adaptability.

Saint Stephen.The Wren’s song is linked through time to St Stephen. St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is celebrated on December 26th, which is also known as St. Stephen’s Day or Boxing Day. In Ireland, the day is also associated with the “Hunting the Wren” tradition, where a wren is symbolically hunted, inspired by a legend that a wren betrayed St. Stephen’s hiding place to his enemies. St. Stephen was one of the first deacons of the early Christian church. He was known for his faith and preaching, but was ultimately stoned to death for blasphemy by the Jewish authorities in Jerusalem. The legend in Ireland connects the wren to St. Stephen’s death, stating that the bird’s chattering betrayed his hiding place, leading to his capture and execution.

Most wrens are small and rather inconspicuous birds, except for their loud and often complex songs. Quite symbolic ! This lovely little coin looks even prettier when it has been hand cut, filed and polished. An old farthing coin given a fantastic new life as a pendant. A lovely, original pendant with a fantastic history and symbolism.