Catalog
| Issuer | Mercia, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Year | 830-840 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Penny (1⁄240) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.32 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Sp#934, North#401/1 |
| Obverse description | Central cross with pellet in angles within inner beaded circle, ruler`s title around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
+ VVIGLAF REX m (Translation: King Wiglaf of Mercia.) |
| Reverse description | Moneyer`s name across three lines, the D and h in pelleted lunettes above and below. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
D + REDMA h (Translation: Raedmund.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (830-840) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1132646170 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver penny belongs to the second reign of Wiglaf of Mercia (830-840), a period marked by Mercia's resurgence following his temporary deposition by Ecgberht of Wessex. Wiglaf's restoration in 830 represented a significant reassertion of Mercian independence and its continued prominence in Anglo-Saxon politics. The issuance of coinage under his name symbolized the re-establishment of Mercian sovereignty and economic stability amidst ongoing power struggles.
Artistry: Anonymous artisans of Wiglaf's mints produced coinage reflecting prevailing Anglo-Saxon stylistic traditions. This type (Sp#934, North#401/1) typically features a robust, diademed bust of the king facing right on the obverse, often with a stylized profile and drapery. The reverse commonly displays a prominent cross pattée, sometimes within a linear circle, accompanied by the moneyer's name, blending royal authority and ecclesiastical symbolism characteristic of the era.
Technical/Grading: Typical for early Anglo-Saxon issues, this penny exhibits varying strike quality. High points on the obverse, such as the diadem, nose, and chin, are often the first to show wear or strike weakness. The reverse's central cross and legend elements are similarly susceptible to flatness. Flans are frequently irregular in shape and thickness, and off-centre strikes are common, leading to incomplete legends. A weight of 1.32 grams is standard for a silver penny of this period.