Catalog
| Issuer | England |
|---|---|
| Year | 924-939 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Penny |
| Currency | Penny (924-1158) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.41 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Sp#1094, North#673 |
| Obverse description | Crowned and draped right facing bust of King Aethelstan, legend around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
+ ÆÐELSTN REX (Translation: King Aethelstan) |
| Reverse description | Central small cross pattée, moneyer`s name around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
+ ÆÐELFREÐ MON (Translation: Æthelfrith, moneyer) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (924-939) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 5420267960 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver penny, issued between 924 and 939, belongs to the transformative reign of Æthelstan, often hailed as the first King of England. His ascension as King of the Anglo-Saxons in 925 and subsequent unification of the realm by 927 marked a pivotal moment in English history. Æthelstan's powerful monarchy fostered unprecedented stability, and his coinage, particularly this 'Crowned bust type,' served as a potent symbol of his regal authority and the newly forged English kingdom.
Artistry: The design, while by an anonymous engraver, showcases the evolving Anglo-Saxon numismatic style. The obverse presents a right-facing, crowned bust of Æthelstan, a significant iconographic development emphasizing his royal status and the consolidation of power. This regal portrayal, though stylized, was a deliberate projection of authority. The reverse typically features a small cross pattée, often with the moneyer's name and mint, reflecting the structured yet geographically distributed minting system.
Technical/Grading: This silver penny, weighing 1.41 grams and 21 mm in diameter, reflects early medieval minting. High-points for wear assessment include the crown and facial details on the obverse, and the central cross on the reverse. Due to manual production, common characteristics include irregular flans, off-center strikes, and variable pressure. A specimen exhibiting a well-centered strike, crisp details on the bust, and clear legends would represent exceptional technical quality for the period.