Penny - Wiglaf 2nd reign

Emittent Mercia, Kingdom of
Jahr 830-840
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nennwert 1 Penny (1⁄240)
Währung Pound
Material Silver
Gewicht 1.32 g
Durchmesser
Dicke
Form Round (irregular)
Prägetechnik Hammered
Ausrichtung Variable alignment ↺
Stempelschneider
Im Umlauf bis
Referenz(en) Sp#934, North#401/1
Aversbeschreibung Central cross with pellet in angles within inner beaded circle, ruler`s title around.
Aversschrift Latin
Averslegende + VVIGLAF REX m
(Translation: King Wiglaf of Mercia.)
Reversbeschreibung Moneyer`s name across three lines, the D and h in pelleted lunettes above and below.
Reversschrift Latin
Reverslegende D + REDMA h
(Translation: Raedmund.)
Rand
Prägestätte
Auflage ND (830-840) - -
Numisquare-ID 1132646170
Zusätzliche Informationen

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.

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