Unusual Re-engraved Moneyer Name
ANGLO-SAXON, Kings of All England. Æthelred II. 978-1016. AR Penny (19mm, 1.48 g, 3h). Helmet type (BMC viii, Hild. E). London mint; Ælfwine, moneyer. Struck circa 1003-1009. + EDELRÆD REX A(NG)LO, helmeted bust left / + ÆLF (over LEO) FPI(NE)M ↓O LV↓ NDE, voided long cross with triple-crescent ends and pellet at center; in each quarter, trefoil on pile. SCBI 25 (Helsinki), 401 (same dies); North 775; SCBC 1152. Toned, slightly wavy flan, a few peck marks. VF. A highly unusual and rare re-engraved reverse legend.
The moneyer’s name in the first quarter of the legend on the reverse appears to have been originally engraved as LEO, but later corrected to ÆLF. Additionally, the mint legend in the third quarter of the reverse, O LV, is flanked by what appear to be either inverter letter Ts or perhaps small hammers. We could not find an example of this die used without the re-engraved legend.
