Estimates the lowest possible cost of coining farthings as 1s.9 1/2 d. per pound weight. He and another mill owner, Essington, are considering putting in a joint tender

Diplomatic TextCatalogue Entry

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Sir

Having some business which will unavoidably keep me in the Country for three weeks, & fearing some progress may be made towards coining of Farthings in that time; I give you the trouble of this to inform you, that since I was in London I have been considering of the lowest rate they can possibly be hammer'd at, which is 21d12 to the pound, & which rate I compute as follows viz

For the Fillets – – 0. 1. 412
& To the Tower–––––– 4
To a Comptroler – – 14
& for vending & distributing – – – – 34
1. 912

This last article will certainly be a very expensive one, for let us manage what we can, we must have a house to lodge them in, as well as a Teller or two to pay them to such as come to demand them. As forthe coinage being free I am of opinion you will find abundance of inconveniencies therein, (too long to set forth herein) whereas on the contrary I hope you will be of opinion that a contract, so limited & restrain'd as we propose it may, will be subject to none. And I am sure in respect to the publick it will be the same thing when the price is once fix'd I cannot be able to think of such a contract myself but have desir'd Mr Essington (who has a mill as well as myself, & who is willing to join with me,) to wait on you, in case any thing should

offer before my return.    I am       Sir your most humble servant

Cha. Parry

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Aprill, 8. 1714