Anonymous Issuer, Early Anglo-Saxon 650-675 AD

Helmeted portrait facing right; reverse, central bust of angel with wings above and facing “emperors” on each side, style distinctly borrowed from a Roman gold solidus (S-741) of Magnus Maximus. The earliest coins struck from native gold in Anglo-Saxon England were minted circa 630 AD and within 50 years had given way to a silver coinage, first called the Sceat and then for centuries the Penny.

Struck on a full flan, showing boldly detailed motifs and legend, with pleasing gold toning.