Historical Records of Australia

Series 1, Volume 2, 1797 - 1800, p. 341

The Duke of Portland to Governor Hunter

(Despatch, per store-ship Walker; acknowledged by Governor Hunter 15th November 1799)

Whitehall, 12 April 1799

Sir,

You will receive by the Porpoise near four tons of a new copper coinage of a penny each.

The total value of the above coinage is £550, which you will take care to carry to the credit of Government, and to account for it in making such payments therewith for the public service as you shall from time to time judge most advisable.

The circulation of this coinage must very much add to the comfort and convenience of individuals, and greatly facilitate their dealings with each other.

It does not occur to me that there can be any inducement or motives of interest for sending this money out of the settlement; but if the contrary should be the case, it will be your duty to frame a suitable ordinance for preventing such an offence, subjecting all defaulters, as well the parties receiving as those disposing of them for exportation, to severe penalties.

I am &c., Portland.