1653 Saint Lambert’s Communion Token PCGS VF-35 – Rare!

Item #CC-0650 | 1653 Saint Lambert’s Communion Token PCGS VF-35 – Rare!
Mint: Liege, Belgium
Assayer: N/A
Grade: VF-35

For details and population on this coin from PCGS, click on the serial number here: 50916777

Description: This beautiful and very rare “Memento Mori” communion token was used in the late 17th century through the 18th century. It was often given to people before they took communion at church and to commemorate the martyrdom of Saint Lambert of Maastricht. These tokens were also handed out to people so they could partake at feasts and funerals. The legend on the obverse reads “ANNIVERSAR” which is Latin for “The Anniversary” and the legend on the reverse reads “ECCLESI LEODI” which stands for “The Church of Liège“.

Some believe “The Anniversary” is meant to commemorate the death of Saint Lambert. This coin is one of five examples that display a skull and crossbones design and is catalogued in the 1948 edition of The Numismatist “Charity Tokens of The Netherlands” by O.P. Eklund as coin #83. Also, referenced as Renesse-71.

For more information on these rare tokens, take an in-depth look at our article.