England / London Penny Aethelred II (978-1016) Last Small Cross type XF-

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Obv: +ÆĐELRÆD RÆX ANGLO
Rev: +EADPINE MΩON LVND

A Glimpse into Late Anglo-Saxon England: The Last Small Cross Penny of Æthelred II

Introduction

This coin, a Penny from the reign of Æthelred II known as the Last Small Cross type, minted in London, offers a fascinating insight into late Anglo-Saxon England. Graded as Extremely Fine minus (XF-), this piece bears the catalog numbers S# 1154 and N# 777. It is made of silver, weighing 1.38 grams, with the legends "+ÆĐELRÆD RÆX ANGLO" on the obverse and "+EADPINE MΩON LVND" on the reverse.

Historical Background

Æthelred II, often remembered as Æthelred the Unready, ruled England from 978 to 1016, a period marked by significant Viking incursions. Known for his policy of paying Danegeld to placate Viking raiders, his reign was fraught with political instability. The Last Small Cross type of penny was one of the later issues during his time, reflecting the tumultuous economic and military environment of the era.

Numismatic Details

Obverse: The coin features a portrait of Æthelred facing left, diademed and draped, with the legend "+ÆĐELRÆD RÆX ANGLO", which translates to "Æthelred, King of the English." The slight variations in spelling ("ANGLΘ" on some coins versus "ANGLOR" or "ANGLO" here) show the diversity in minting practices or die-cutting.
Reverse: Here, a small cross pattée is centered, surrounded by the legend "+EADPINE MΩON LVND", indicating the moneyer Eadpine in London. The "MΩON" instead of "ON" is a unique feature, perhaps due to a die error or a stylistic choice by the moneyer. "LVND" specifies London as the minting location.

Economic Significance

This coin type was part of an attempt to standardize the currency amidst the chaos of Viking raids, aiming to reduce the effects of coin clipping and counterfeiting. The high grade of XF- suggests this piece was either not heavily circulated or was preserved well, providing us with a clear view of late Anglo-Saxon coinage artistry and minting quality.

Cultural Context

The coin reflects the cultural melding of Viking and Anglo-Saxon elements, not just in the political sphere but also in the everyday life of commerce and trade. The presence of such coins in hoards, often buried for safety during raids, illustrates the precariousness of the time yet also the resilience of the English economy and culture.

Conclusion

The Last Small Cross Penny of Æthelred II from London is more than just currency; it's a historical artifact encapsulating a period of transition and conflict. Its preservation in such a high grade allows historians and numismatists to study the nuances of late Anglo-Saxon minting practices, the influence of Viking culture on England, and the challenges faced by a kingdom under siege. This coin stands as a testament to a pivotal moment in English history, where every piece of silver was both a means of trade and a symbol of survival.

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