WWI Bronze Memorial Plaque “Dead Man’s Penny” – Stanley Ernest Wilshere – 130mm United Kingdom – 1919 Original World War I Bronze Memorial Plaque (“Dead Man’s Penny”) Named to: STANLEY ERNEST WILSHERE Large 130 mm – Excellent Condition – Authentic Government Issue Offered here is an original WWI Memorial Plaque, commonly known as the “Dead Man’s Penny” or “Death Penny”, issued by the British Government beginning in 1919 to honor soldiers of the British Empire who died as a result of the First World War. This plaque is an authentic solid bronze casting, 130 mm in diameter, bearing the name STANLEY ERNEST WILSHERE, cast in raised letters exactly as produced at the Memorial Plaque Factory in Acton (London) and later at the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich. These plaques were presented to the next of kin of the fallen, together with a scroll signed by the King. Each one represents a deeply personal and historical artifact — a tangible reminder of sacrifice, loss, and national memory after the most devastating conflict the world had seen. This is not a reproduction, not a later restrike, and not a copy. It is an original government-issued bronze plaque from the immediate post-war period. ⸻ ARTISTIC & SYMBOLIC DESIGN The bronze plaque, designed by Edward Carter Preston after winning a national competition in 1917, is rich in classical symbolism: • Britannia stands holding a trident, representing the British Empire. • She extends a laurel wreath of honor toward the rectangular panel bearing the soldier’s name. • No rank is recorded, as all who served and died were considered equal in sacrifice. • A powerful lion, emblem of courage and British strength, strides confidently beneath Britannia. • Two dolphins flank the central figure, symbolizing naval power. • At the base lies a smaller lion defeating the German eagle, representing victory over aggression. • The circular legend reads: “HE DIED FOR FREEDOM AND HONOUR” The design reflects the classical revival of the early 20th century and the solemn dignity of national mourning. ⸻ ABOUT THE RECIPIENT – STANLEY ERNEST WILSHERE The plaque is named to: STANLEY ERNEST WILSHERE This name is cast (not engraved) in raised letters — exactly as issued. A cast name confirms authenticity and period production. British genealogical and military records confirm that plaques of this style and name belong to men who died in active service or from wounds related to service during WWI. Collectors highly value plaques that can be traced to specific regiments or battles; the next owner may wish to research his unit, enlistment, and casualty details through online archives, Forces War Records, or National Archives Kew. ⸻ TECHNICAL DETAILS • Date: 1919–1920 issue • Diameter: 130 mm (5.1 inches) • Metal: Solid bronze • Technique: Direct sand-casting with hand-finishing • Weight: approx. 315–340 grams (typical range) • Maker: Memorial Plaque Factory (Acton) or Royal Arsenal Woolwich • Reverse: Plain, with characteristic casting texture • Condition: Excellent patina, crisp details, no damage, no repairs This example shows very good relief, beautiful surface tone, and strong presence — ideal for display or collection.