This token follows an established tradition of birth tokens with the basic details recorded. What is unusual for such a token is the patriotic motto 'Advance Australia' under the unofficial coat of arms. Interestingly, another commemorative birth object in the collection (A6954 Layette pillow) also features this motto.

The reuse of coins for commemoratives was popular in Britain during the 18th and 19th centuries, and like many traditions, was carried on in Australia. Despite the illegality of using circulating coins, they were a convenient medium that could be converted with varying degrees of success, and were as likely to be used by both the very skilled artisan, as well as the novice responding to a spontaneous need to mark a place in time. In this way, both a medal engraved by the eminent engraver Samuel Clayton on a shilling in 1821 (N12477), and a convict love token from the 1780s (87/1494) spring from the same practical roots. Birth tokens from coins also relate to ceramic birth plaques popular in the 18th century and produced by numerous British potteries, most notably Lowestoft porcelain.

This token has additional interest for its unofficial coat of arms, and patriotic; 'Advance Australia.'

We can reasonably assume that the Eason family used this token to commemmorate the birth of a son, Edward, in 1866.

Birth token, reused coin engraved, Edward Eason / Born at / Burrowa NSW / May 20th 1866, silver, Australia, 1866.

Silver birth token, reused coin - probably half crown, circular with added suspension point at top (non-original red paper ribbon attached), engraved with name and details of child, and unofficial Australian coat of arms:
Obverse. text
Reverse. Coat of arms (unofficial) depicting a kangaroo and emu with shield. Rising sun located at u.c. Advance Australia under coat of arms.

Designer: unknown; Australia

Maker: unknown; 1866

Reverse: insc. l.c. "ADVANCE AUSTRALIA"
Obverse: insc. "EDWARD EASON / Born at / BURROWA N.S.W / May 20th 1866"

97/298/1

32 mm