GREAT BRITAIN. Anglo-Saxon. Kings of Mercia. Penny, ND (ca. 785-792/3). London Mint; Ealhmund, moneyer. Offa. CHOICE VERY FINE.
S-905; N-318. Light coinage, portrait type. Obverse: + ΘF-FA - R-EX, bare bust right, breaking inner circle; Reverse: ALHM / ЧND in two lines within serpentine wreath. Quite RARE and always at the forefront of any advanced collection of early British issues, this specimen presents a charming portrait of the king along with an elegant engraving style with respect to the devices and decorations. A few hints of metal roughness are noted, but in no way detract from the majesty that this example commands.
Coming to power at a time of war, Offa was the most successful king from this period in establishing a wide-ranging kingdom. He originated in what is now the British midlands and was able to extend his sway over most of the south of England. Offa never gained control of Northumbria, but until Alfred the Great, no king was more powerful in the British Isles. Coins of Offa are popular, and feature beautiful portraiture of the king, suggesting the high stature he was held in. To view all items from the Paul C. Runze Collection, click
here.From the Paul C. Runze Collection (purchased from Davisson's).
Estimate: $4000 - $8000