That’s a fascinating piece of local history! The coin is a Bungay Halfpenny token, dating from the late 18th century. These tokens were privately issued by merchants during periods when official small change was scarce.

The design corresponds to a Suffolk (Bungay) halfpenny token, dated 1794, part of the provincial “Conder token” series issued by merchants during a national small‑change shortage.

• The obverse typically shows Bigod’s Castle” refers to Bungay Castle, built by Roger Bigod, one of the Norman Earls of Norfolk. The castle’s twin towers are depicted on the coin, symbolizing Bungay’s medieval heritage.

• The reverse shows Justice standing, with the legend FOR CHANGE NOT FRAUD and the date 1794.

• The edge is usually inscribed PAYABLE IN LANCASTER LONDON OR BRISTOL.

  
  

A very similar token with the same Justice figure and motto was also issued for Kendal (Westmoreland), but that version includes an “R & D” cypher and the word KENDAL on the reverse, which this coin does not appear to show.

Purpose - Used locally for trade when official coinage was in short supply