Penny - Cynethryth
| Issuer | Mercia, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Year | 780-792 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Penny (1⁄240) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.29 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Sp#909, North#339, MEC I#1132 |
| Obverse description | Draped bust right, trefoil at sides and above. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
E·◊B·A· (Translation: Eoba.) |
| Reverse description | Barred Mercian m, pellets around and within. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
+ CFNEđ·R·Fđ·R·EGIN·Λ m (Translation: Cynethryth, queen of Mercia.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (780-792) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1792949170 |
| Additional information |
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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.