The British 1835 Farthing was designed by William Wyon during the reign of King William IV. In 1835, Britain was experiencing a period of economic stability, though issues like industrialization and class disparities were beginning to rise. The Farthing symbolized both everyday transactions and the growth of the industrial economy, with its copper composition representing the era’s reliance on more affordable metals for lower denomination coins.
The 1835 Farthing’s design showcased a mature figure of Britannia, a traditional symbol of British strength and unity. Its simplicity reflected the period’s transition in coinage, as Britain sought to balance practical economic needs with traditional royal symbolism. The coins copper content underscored its lower value and role in daily commerce.