Edward The Martyr Small Cross Type Penny 975-978

Description

Header: Edward The Martyr, Silver Penny, Reform Portrait Small Cross Type, Moneyer Hacus or Macus

Denomination: Silver penny, large fragment

Period: Anglo-Saxon

Date: 975-978

Origin: Possibly York mint, moneyer is rare as either Hacus or more likely Macus

Condition: AVF, a large cracked fragment but with a good portrait; rare in any condition

Obverse: Diademed and draped bust of Edward, left, legend around +[EADP]ARD REX ANG

Reverse: Small central cross within inner circle, legend around +HACVS M-[O][ ]R

Size and Weight: 20mm, 0.80g

References: S1142; North 763

Features and Provenance: Ex Bonham’s, previously TimeLine Auctions, found Lincolnshire, UK

Born in 962, Edward was the eldest son of King Edgar and succeeded to the throne as a boy of 12. Backed by church officials who viewed him as a defender of faith, his reign was marked by support for monastic reforms and a focus on the welfare of the poor. Despite efforts to maintain peace, he faced noble opposition from his younger half-brother, Aethelred II the Unready, that led to plots against him. In 978, he was lured to Corfe Castle and murdered, considered a martyr by his followers.

Condition Summary. This varies with the age of coin and there are grades between

Uncirculated (U). As struck with no traces of wear

Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear. all parts of legend etc present. visible and clear

Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief. all parts of legend etc present. but maybe worn

Fine (F). Wear on the coin and parts of legend etc may be missing or not visible