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Auction: 21124 - Spink Numismatic e-Circular 9: British and World Coins & Commemorative Medals
Lot: 6105

(x) Middlesex, Thomas Hall, Copper Halfpenny, 1795, MRS NEWSHAM THE WHITE NEGRESS, figure standing, rev. TO BE HAD AT THE CURIOSITY HOUSE CITY ROAD, NEAR | FINSBURY SQUARE | LONDON | 1795 in centre, edge plain, 9.17g, 12h (DH 317), residually lustrous, extremely fine

Amelia Newsham was born an albino child to black slaves in Jamaica. She was sent on to London in 1753 as a present from her master, Sir Simon Clarke, 6th Baronet, a convicted highwayman, to his second son Kingsmill Clarke, a barrister who agreed to her sale for 400 Guineas. She was then acquired by John Bennett or Burnet who began to display her at fairs throughout Britain. She would also appear at private audiences with the Royal Family and at the Royal Society. Contemporary accounts reveal that she was of fair complexion and had white hair, between 4 and 6 inches long, and the consistency and colour of sheep's wool. By 1795 she was being exhibited by Thomas Hall at his City Road address, and later at other venues. In May 1798, a public disturbance was reported in West Ham, following one such display. She would ultimately marry an Englishman with whom she had six children.

Her treatment whilst unquestionably abhorrent to modern ears, was one that Amelia herself eventually capitalised on, gaining firstly her freedom and then subsequently touring on her own terms at exhibitions of 'a penny a look'. In 1824, such an event records her welcome poem to visitors:



"My nose, my lips, my features, all explore,

The just resemblance of a blackamore;

And on my head the silver-coloured wool

Gives further demonstration clear and full.

This curious age may with amazement view

What after ages won't believe is true. "

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£130

Starting price
£30