Styca - Redwulf

Historical Context: This Styca of Redwulf marks a brief, tumultuous period in 9th-century Northumbrian history. Redwulf usurped the throne from Eanred in 844, ruling only months before his demise and Aethelred II's ascension. His short reign highlights the profound political instability of the era, increasingly threatened by Viking incursions. The copper-alloy Styca coinage, unique to Northumbria, reflects the kingdom's economic challenges and silver scarcity, making Redwulf's issues rare numismatic testaments to a significant power struggle.

Artistry: Numismatic artistry on Northumbrian Stycas, including Redwulf's, reflects a distinctive local style, though moneyers like MONNE or BRODER are often identifiable. Designs are typically crude, featuring central crosses or pellet arrangements on both obverse and reverse, surrounded by the ruler’s name and the moneyer’s name respectively. The lettering, frequently blundered or retrograde, exemplifies a debased Anglo-Saxon aesthetic, a departure from earlier silver coinages, yet possessing a raw historical charm.

Technical/Grading: This copper-alloy Styca (12.5mm, 1.22gg) often exhibits significant striking imperfections. High-points prone to wear or weakness include central motifs and outer legend edges. Common technical strike qualities are off-center strikes, weak or incomplete legends due to insufficient pressure, and irregular flan shapes. The copper alloy is highly susceptible to corrosion; thus, well-preserved examples with full, clear legends and minimal surface degradation are exceedingly rare and highly prized.