Penny - Æthelberht Alberht

Historical Context: This silver penny, issued by Æthelberht I of East Anglia (sometimes Alberht), dates from his long reign (749-794 CE). This period falls squarely within the Mercian Supremacy, where East Anglia, while autonomous enough to issue coinage, was often influenced by powerful Mercian kings like Offa. The minting of these pennies reflects a sophisticated economic infrastructure and the assertion of royal authority, contributing to the broader Anglo-Saxon monetary system standardizing on the silver penny.

Artistry: The artistic execution of Æthelberht's coinage, including Sp#945C, aligns with the broader Anglo-Saxon numismatic style of the mid-to-late 8th century. Individual engravers remain anonymous. The obverse typically features a crude but recognizable diademed bust, often facing right, demonstrating a stylistic lineage influenced by contemporary Frankish and late Roman traditions. The reverse commonly displays a central cross variation, such as a cross pommée with wedges, indicative of insular design adapted from Christian iconography.

Technical/Grading: For this type, critical grading points include the clarity and completeness of the obverse bust, specifically the diadem, facial features, and drapery, along with the legibility of the surrounding legend. On the reverse, the sharpness of the central cross motif (e.g., cross pommée and wedges) and any moneyer's name are paramount. The strike's centering on the typically irregular flan, the original weight of approximately 1.2 grams, and the silver's integrity are also crucial. Minimal surface abrasions and lack of porosity significantly enhance desirability.