Penny - Coenwulf Groups III and IV, Canterbury

Historical Context: Coenwulf’s reign (810-821 AD) marks a pivotal period in Mercian supremacy, with the Kingdom asserting significant dominance over Anglo-Saxon England. This silver penny, struck at the important Canterbury mint, reflects Coenwulf’s powerful authority and the economic stability of his realm. As a formidable ruler, Coenwulf maintained strong ecclesiastical ties and commercial links, including with the Carolingian Empire. The consistent issuance of coinage like this penny underscores a sophisticated monetary system under royal control, essential for trade, taxation, and projecting royal power across his extensive territories.

Artistry: The artistry of this Penny, categorized within Coenwulf’s Groups III and IV, exemplifies the skilled craftsmanship prevalent at the Canterbury mint. While individual engravers remain largely anonymous, the stylistic school is distinctly Anglo-Saxon, showing an evolution from earlier Mercian traditions towards greater refinement. The obverse typically features a stylized, often diademed, bust of the king, conveying royal majesty. The reverse commonly displays a prominent cross design, frequently with a central motif or monogram, encircled by the moneyer’s name and the mint signature. This design clarity was crucial for communicating royal legitimacy and control.

Technical/Grading: Technically, this silver penny, weighing 1.46 gg and measuring 20 mm, exhibits strike qualities typical of early medieval coinage. High-points most susceptible to wear include the king’s facial features (nose, chin, diadem) and the central elements of the reverse cross. Well-struck examples will present full detail on the bust and clear epigraphy, though minor flan irregularities, such as slight waviness or unevenness, and occasional off-centering are common. Evidence of die wear or minor double-striking can also be observed, impacting the overall sharpness and definition of the design elements.