Penny - Cynethryth
| Émetteur | Mercia, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Année | 780-792 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | 1 Penny (1⁄240) |
| Devise | Pound |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 1.29 g |
| Diamètre | |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | Sp#909, North#339, MEC I#1132 |
| Description de l’avers | Draped bust right, trefoil at sides and above. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Latin |
| Légende de l’avers |
E·◊B·A· (Translation: Eoba.) |
| Description du revers | Barred Mercian m, pellets around and within. |
| Écriture du revers | Latin |
| Légende du revers |
+ CFNEđ·R·Fđ·R·EGIN·Λ m (Translation: Cynethryth, queen of Mercia.) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (780-792) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 1792949170 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
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Historical Context: This Penny, issued by Cynethryth between 780-792, marks a unique event in Anglo-Saxon numismatic history. As wife to Offa, the powerful King of Mercia, Cynethryth stands as the sole Anglo-Saxon queen to issue coinage in her own name. This extraordinary privilege highlights her significant political influence and high status within the Mercian court, potentially indicating a co-regency or distinct authority during Offa's reign, a period of Mercian hegemony.
Artistry: The coin's artistry, though from an unnamed engraver, reflects the sophisticated Mercian stylistic school of Offa's era. Typical designs feature a diademed bust of the queen on the obverse, rendered in a distinctive, somewhat schematic insular style with classical influences. Legends, proclaiming "CYNETHRYTH REGINA," are generally clear and well-executed, indicating high mint standards. The reverse typically displays the moneyer's name and a cross or monogram.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 1.29 grams of silver, this penny's technical strike quality varies. High-points for a portrait type, like the diadem, nose, and shoulder, are often susceptible to weakness or flatness from striking pressure.