© Spink and Son
© Spink and Son
½ Penny - Alfred the Great 3rd coinage
| Silver | 0.64 g | - |
| Location | Kingdom of Wessex (Kingdoms of British Isles and Frisia) |
|---|---|
| Moneyer | Cuthberht |
| King | Alfred the Great (871-899) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 880-899 |
| Value | ½ Penny (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.64 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#313653 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Two lines divided by pellets and crosses.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
CVDB
ERHT
Translation: Cuthberht.
Comment
Anglo-Saxon Middle Period (c.780-973), Kings of Wessex (786-924), Alfred the Great (871-899), Third coinage (880-899).Two-Line Cross-pattee type, Mercian dies, moneyer Cudberht.
Brother and successor to Aethelred, Alfred had to contend with invading Danish armies for much of his reign. In 878, he and Guthrum the Dane divided the country, with Alfred holding all England south and west of Watling Street. Alfred asserted over-lordship of Mercia and London from c.880. (courtesy of Spink SCBC 56th ed. 2021)
Interesting fact
Did you know that the image of Alfred the Great on this coin was designed to represent him as a strong and powerful leader, with a bold and confident gaze? The design was meant to symbolize Alfred's success in defending England against the Viking invasions and his efforts to promote education and literacy throughout the country. Despite being a small coin, it carries a big message about the importance of leadership and the value of education.
