Brief Summary… 

• Recycled old Jenny Wren Farthings 1937 – 1956
• Extremely high quality solid stainless steel cufflink setting
• Beautiful copper / stainless steel contrast
• Made using only traditional hand tools and techniques
• Size : 20mm diameter
• Symbolism: British culture & history, joy, renewal, cleverness & tenderness
• Handcrafted & Recycled in Cambridge

A little more detail…

A Farthing for sure..

The wren symbolised wisdom and divinity and was the soul and symbol of the Oak King. 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.

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 careful set in the contrasting stainless steel cufflink. An old farthing coin given a fantastic new life as a set of cufflinks. A lovely, original pendant with a fantastic history and symbolism.

Size : diameter 20 mm