Reproduction Harold II Penny

Obverse: Crowned bust of Harold II (Godwinson) left, without sceptre. Text around HAROLD REX ANGLO.

Reverse: PAX across field with lines above and below. Text around EDPINE ON LVNDDN.

History: Harold Godwinson, or Harold II of England was the last Anglo-Saxon King of England. He ruled from January 5 to October 14, 1066 when he was killed at the Battle of Hastings after William of Normandy invaded England to fight for the throne.

Only three types of penny were minted during the short reign of Harold II and all have the same PAX (Peace) type reverse and a head and neck bust on the obverse. The bust on most of his coinage faces left, with or without a sceptre, but can sometimes face right. The peace reference seems a curious statement given the events of the year.

Date: Moneyer Edwine in London, 1066.

Diameter: 1.9cm