Currencies/Jamaican farthing
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Introduction
The Jamaican farthing was a small bronze coin used in Jamaica during the period when the island’s currency was based on the Jamaican pound. It represented the lowest denomination in the pre-decimal system and was used for small everyday transactions under British colonial rule.
History
The Jamaican farthing was first issued in 1880, during the reign of Queen Victoria. It formed part of the Jamaican pound system, where 1 pound was equal to 20 shillings and 1 shilling was equal to 12 pence, making the farthing equal to one-quarter of a penny. Coins continued to be issued under subsequent British monarchs, including Edward VII, George V, George VI, and Elizabeth II. The denomination remained in circulation until Jamaica adopted the decimal-based Jamaican dollar on 8 September 1969, after which it was withdrawn from use.
Coins
The Jamaican farthing was struck in bronze and featured the portrait of the reigning British monarch on the obverse. The reverse displayed the Jamaican coat of arms along with the denomination “FARTHING” and the year of issue. The coin was small in size, consistent with its minimal value, and closely resembled the British farthing in design and metal composition. Variants were minted by the Royal Mint in London for circulation throughout the colony.
Currency
Within the pre-decimal Jamaican currency system, the farthing was equal to ¼ of a penny, 1/48 of a shilling, and 1/960 of a pound. It was used primarily for very small purchases and transactions. When Jamaica converted to the decimal Jamaican dollar in 1969, the farthing and all other pre-decimal denominations were replaced by coins denominated in cents.
Legacy
The Jamaican farthing represents the island’s colonial monetary history and its connection to the British pound system. Its withdrawal marked the end of Jamaica’s use of sterling-based denominations and the beginning of an independent decimal currency structure. The coin remains part of Jamaica’s numismatic heritage, reflecting the country’s transition from colonial to national identity.