© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Penny - Æthelstan Small cross type ND
| Silver | 1.37 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | England (United Kingdom, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies) |
|---|---|
| King | Æthelstan (924-939) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 924-939 |
| Value | 1 Penny |
| Currency | Penny (924-1158) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.37 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-08 |
| Numista | N#90390 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Small cross pattée, moneyer and mint name around.
Script: Latin
Lettering: + REGИΛLD Mo EFoRPC
Translation: Ragnald, moneyer Eoforwic (York)
Comment
Kings of All England (924-973), Aethelstan (924-939), Circumscription Cross type;
Eoforwic (York) mint; Ragnald, moneyer.
The capture of York by the Anglo Saxons in 927 and subsequent homage paid to Aethelstan by the Danes and other Scottish, Welsh, and British kings and princes allowed Aethelstan to proclaim himself King of All Britain (Rex Totius Britanniae). A new coinage type, known as the Circumscription Cross type was issued from the freshly captured city and across the kingdom bearing this grandiose new title. York would stay in English hands until Aethelstan's death in 939.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Æthelstan Penny is that it is considered to be one of the rarest and most valuable pennies in the world. It is believed that only about 100 of these coins were minted, making them highly sought after by collectors. In fact, in 2010, one of these coins was sold at an auction for a whopping $1.3 million!
