© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Penny - Æthelstan II
| Silver | 1.24 g | 18 mm |
| Location | Kingdom of East Anglia (Kingdoms of British Isles and Frisia) |
|---|---|
| Moneyer | Abernel |
| King | Aethelstan II (878-890) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 885-890 |
| Value | 1 Penny (1⁄240) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.24 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#91075 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Moneyer's name in two lines.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
ΛBE
NLE
Translation: Abernel.
Comment
Anglo-Saxon Middle Period (c.780-973), Anglo-Viking Coinages (c.885-954), Danish East Anglia (c.885-915)Æthelstan II (also known as Guthrum) (c.878-890), Horizontal (Two-line) type, mint in East Anglia (Ipswich?).
In 878, the forces of Wessex led by Alfred the Great decisively defeated a large Viking army at Edington in Wiltshire. Under the terms of the treaty which followed, the Viking leader Guthrum was baptised with Alfred acting as godfather. The following year Guthrum led his army into East Anglia where he would later issue small coinage imitating Alfred's two line type but bearing his own baptismal name of Aethelstan.
Interesting fact
The Penny coin minted during the reign of Æthelstan II (885-890) was made of silver, which was a significant change from the previous coins that were made of copper or bronze. This change in material was likely due to the scarcity of copper and bronze during that time, and the use of silver was seen as a way to maintain the value of the coin while also ensuring that it was durable and long-lasting. This decision to use silver in the production of coins was a notable innovation during Æthelstan II's reign and reflects his efforts to stabilize and strengthen the English economy during a time of economic and political turmoil.
