Sale: CNG 61, Lot: 2589. Estimate $1500.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 25 September 2002.  Sold For $1222. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

SAXON. Harold II. 6 January-14 October 1066. AR Penny (1.27 gm). Lewes mint. Ælfsi, moneyer. +HAROLD REX ANGLO, crowned bust left, sceptre before / +ÆLFSI OH LEVEEI:, PAX on banner. North 836; Seaby 1186. Toned good VF. ($1500)

This was Harold's sole type, struck at no fewer than 47 mints. It is ironic as peace was in short supply during his brief reign. The son of a powerful earl in Edward the Confessor's court, Harold became Earl of Wessex in 1053 and was recognized as King upon Edward's death. He is remembered for two battles, one which he won and one which he lost. On the 25th of September he defeated an invading Norwegian army and killed their king, Harold Hardrada. On the 14th of October Harold fell at the Battle of Hastings against William of Normandy, pierced through the eye with a Norman arrow. With his death the Saxon rule of England was over.