WW1 Death Penny Plaque – JOHN HENRY MARTIN (with Letters)

An original First World War bronze Memorial Plaque issued in memory of John Henry Martin.

Soldier Details

Research & History

Unit : "B" Coy. 2nd/5th Battalion.

How killed : Killed in Action

Additional info : Son of Henry and Helen Martin, of 4, Portland Avenue, Stamford Hill, London.

Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Bay 9.

Plaque is in excellent as issued condition, with the following papers etc –

1. Two letters dated 25 June 1917 and 30 June 1917 informing members of the family / friends of John Henry Martins death.

2. One standard Record Office letter forwarding medals to his next of kin.

3. One paper Plaque envelope addressed to his mother.

4. Letter & envelope addressed to John Henry Martins Brother dated 26 July 1917 (Field postmark 27 July 1917).

1901 census info: Address : 77 Hampton Road,

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.