Penny - Wiglaf 2nd reign

Uitgever Mercia, Kingdom of
Jaar 830-840
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 1 Penny (1⁄240)
Valuta Pound
Samenstelling Silver
Gewicht 1.32 g
Diameter
Dikte
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek Hammered
Oriëntatie Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) Sp#934, North#401/1
Beschrijving voorzijde Central cross with pellet in angles within inner beaded circle, ruler`s title around.
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde + VVIGLAF REX m
(Translation: King Wiglaf of Mercia.)
Beschrijving keerzijde Moneyer`s name across three lines, the D and h in pelleted lunettes above and below.
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde D + REDMA h
(Translation: Raedmund.)
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (830-840) - -
Numisquare-ID 1132646170
Aanvullende informatie

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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