WW1 Death Penny Plaque – HERBERT JOY

An original First World War bronze Memorial Plaque issued in memory of Herbert Joy.

Soldier Details

Research & History

Woolwich Arsenal Foundry Mark on the back. Front it has the number 34 between the lion's trailing leg and tail.

Son of John & Emily Joy, of St. John's Chapel, Tawstock, Barnstaple, Devon.

3 Brothers: Charles, John & Richard

2 Sisters: Alice & Frances

Address: Stone. Bideford, Devon.

Information from 1891 Census.

Ordinary Seaman Herbert Joy

This plaque has been researched. Copies of the supporting research are included.

About the Memorial Plaque

The bronze Memorial Plaque was issued after the First World War to the next of kin of service personnel who had died in the conflict. Around 1.3 million were produced.

Each plaque measures 121mm (4.76″) in diameter and weighs approximately 333 grams. Cast in bronze, the design features:

• Britannia holding a laurel wreath in her left hand and a trident in her right.
• An imperial lion standing before her.
• Two dolphins representing Britain’s sea power.
• A second lion tearing apart the eagle emblem of Imperial Germany.
• A rectangular panel bearing the name of the fallen.

No rank was included on the plaque, reflecting the intention that all who died be shown as equal in their sacrifice. The border carries the inscription “He/She Died For Freedom And Honour”.

These plaques are also known as the Dead Man’s Penny, Death Penny, Death Plaque, Widow’s Penny or Memorial Plaque.