© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Penny - Offa Light coinage; portrait type
| Silver | 1.2 g | 18 mm |
| Issuer | Kingdom of Mercia (Kingdoms of British Isles and Frisia) |
|---|---|
| King | Offa (757-796) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 780-792 |
| Value | 1 Penny (1⁄240) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.2 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#310010 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cross fleury with lozenge centre, saltire in lozenge, legend in angles.
Script: Latin
Lettering: +P IH TR Ed
Translation: Wihtred.
Comment
Anglo-Saxon middle period (c.780-973), Kings of Mercia (757-880), Offa (757-796), Light coinage (c.780-792).East Anglia mints, various types with portraits, some reverses with runic letters, small flans.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Penny - Offa (Light coinage; portrait type) (780-792) from Kingdom of Mercia (Kingdoms of British Isles and Frisia) made of Silver weighing 1.2 g is that it features the first known portrait of a British king on a coin, with the image of King Offa facing forward and wearing a crown. This coin was issued during Offa's reign, who is considered one of the greatest Anglo-Saxon kings, known for his military campaigns and his efforts to unite the various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
