Penny of Harold I

The finder of this coin wished to remain anonymous but asked for my opinion as to its possible value.

This find is a penny of Harold I, otherwise known as Harold Harefoot, supposedly because he could run very fast. He was an illegitimate son of King Cnut, who died in 1035. Cnut’s only legitimate son, Harthacnut, should have succeeded him but Harold grasped the throne and was King of England until he died in 1040.

This penny is an example of the jewel cross type and is listed in the Standard Catalogue as number 1163. On the reverse the legend reads +PADLOS ON LINCOLN, so Wadlos is the moneyer and Lincoln the mint.   

Valuation

The coin would grade near VF and is well struck but on the obverse there is a small crack over Harold’s head, and the surface on both sides is partly dark and part light. The difference in colouration does reduce the eye appeal and this would count as a minus point for the most discerning collectors. A plus point is the moneyer, for I didn’t manage to trace another Lincoln mint penny of Harold I with Wadlos on the reverse. After allowing for the plus and minus points, my price range on this Anglo-Saxon penny would be £800-900.

Valuation Service

If you would like your coin identified or valued, please read about my valuation service and contact me