© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Sceat - Aldfrith
| Silver | 1.2 g | 11 mm |
| Issuer | Kingdom of Northumbria (Kingdoms of British Isles and Frisia) |
|---|---|
| King | Aldfrith (685-705) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 685-705 |
| Value | 1 Sceat |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.2 g |
| Diameter | 11 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#102740 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Four-legged beast with triple-pronged tail standing left
Comment
Kings of Northumbria (685-855), Aldfrith (685-705) - this silver sceat, or penny, is the only coin recorded in Spink that is attributed to Aldfrith (Ealdfrith, Aldfrid), the first King of Northumbria, although there is also a copper styca which resides in the British Museum. Also, again according to Spink, Aldfrith is shown as the first Northumbrian king to issue coinage but it is actually his half-brother Ecgfrith (b. 645) who produced the first cast sceattas on a large scale.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Standard circulation coin Sceat - Aldfrith (685-705) from Kingdom of Northumbria (Kingdoms of British Isles and Frisia) made of Silver weighing 1.2 g is that it features a unique blend of Christian and pagan elements in its design. The coin's obverse side bears the image of a cross, symbolizing the Christian faith, while the reverse side features a depiction of a mythical creature, possibly a dragon or a serpent, which was a common motif in pre-Christian Northumbrian art. This blending of religious symbols reflects the cultural and religious transformations taking place in Northumbria during the 7th century.
