William I

Coinage

There were many changes after the Norman Conquest but the coinage of England remained the same. The decision not to tamper with it was wise, for English currency was respected throughout Europe, as it could always be trusted to be the correct weight and standard. This respect led to it being copied by a number of other issuing authorities. As with previous Anglo-Saxon coinages, the design was changed quite often and this allowed the king to profit each time it happened. Eight different types were struck under William I but some scholars still argue as to whether or not the last type belongs to the Conqueror or to William II. William did not even recognise Harold as king but the obverse on his first pennies is very similar in design to the coins of Harold II. The coinage remained at the same weight and fineness but at the mints dotted about England the Anglo-Saxon moneyers started to be replaced by Normans or men loyal to them.

The 3 pennies below are type 1, with a similar design to that of Harold, type 2, and type 8, where there is some uncertainty as to whether it is the last design of William I or the first of William II.