1 Penny - Sihtric Anlafsson (Late long cross; cross obv) (1015-1035) front 1 Penny - Sihtric Anlafsson (Late long cross; cross obv) (1015-1035) back
1 Penny - Sihtric Anlafsson (Late long cross; cross obv) (1015-1035) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

1 Penny - Sihtric Anlafsson Late long cross; cross obv

 
Silver 1.0 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Hiberno-Norse Kingdom of Dublin (Kingdoms of British Isles and Frisia)
King
Sigtrygg II Silkbeard Olafsson (995-1036)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1015-1035
Value
1 Penny (1⁄240)
Currency
Penny (997-1205)
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.0 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#55157
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Voided long cross with triple crescent tips dividing legend. Small pellet at center of cross, and in each quadrant. Other symbols may be present in quadrants

Script: Latin

Lettering: ✠ FÆ RIFN ИNO NEIH

Translation: Faeremin moneyer in Dublin

Comment

This type is characterized by degenerate legends (obverse legend starting with И or N), much variety in the presence of various symbols obverse (in front of face and behind neck) and reverse, and variable weight, ranging from about 0.75 to 1.12 grams, possibly indicating its striking over a long time range, and likely also placing it later than Sp#6125A.

Examples of variants:
Obverse: legend ✠IИNTRERE✠IFNH; Reverse: Two pellets arranged radially in each quadrant. ✠FÆ RIN ИNO DFIE

© Baldwin of St. James

Obverse: Two pellets in front and cross pattée behind neck. ✠NNTRIRE✠ИFDIH
Reeverse: ✠FÆ RENI ИMO NOIH

© Classical Numismatic Group

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during the reign of Sihtric Anlafsson, a Viking king who ruled the Hiberno-Norse Kingdom of Dublin from 1015 to 1035. The coin features a late long cross design on the obverse (front) side, which was a common design element in Viking-age coins. Despite being made of silver, the coin weighs only 1.0 gram, which is relatively light compared to other coins of similar composition. This may indicate that the coin was intended for everyday use and circulation, rather than being a high-value or ceremonial coin.