Description
Aethelred II (978-1016), Penny, Small Crux type (c.995-997) London mint, moneyer Osulf , inner linear circles both sides, bare headed bust left, in front trefoil tipped sceptre, cutting into drapery, legend surrounds +ÆĐELRÆD REX ΛNGLOR. Rev, short cross voided with CRUX in angles, reading OSVLF: M-O LVND, 1.38g (S.1149; N.770 var ; BMC IIIa; SCBI 20, Mack :907 similar obverse die).
Some peckmarks both sides synonymous with the type, legends legible, crude style portrait. Extra pellet symbol above the C and X of Crux. This example appears to be well struck with clashed or blocked dies. Near or about very fine with interesting additional pellets, scarce.
cf., BNJ 28 ‘The small crux issue of Aethelred II’ by B. H. I. H. Stewart (1955, Third Series VIII)
cf., Additional reverse pellets noted on London Crux pennies SCBI 7 : 650, 661, 773. Privy or control marks relating to mintage output is one of the accepted schools of thought behind these extra markings.
