Preview: Coins & Banknotes 12th February

The Coins and Banknotes Sale, to be held at Tennants Auctioneers on 12^th February, will feature a wide variety of lots covering all areas of the numismatic spectrum, from ancient and hammered coins to modern proof sets and bullion coinage. This sale will also include an extensive banknote section, with a particular focus on English, Scottish, and provincial issues.

One of the most interesting coins to be offered is a rare King Offa Silver Penny dating from around 765-792 AD (estimate: £800-1200 all figures exclude buyer’s premium). This coin is believed to originate from the Canterbury Mint, with the moneyer Ealred's name appearing on the reverse. The penny was discovered by a metal detectorist near Holbeach, Lincolnshire, and was submitted to the Portable Antiquities Scheme for recording (PAS ID LIN-5E0B23). The PAS has declared it a ‘find of note’, as it is only the second Offa coin with the moneyer Ealred recorded in Lincolnshire and the fifth recorded across the scheme as a whole. Significantly, this is the only example of an Offa penny with this particular portrait issue and moneyer documented by the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Although the coin is a little nibbled around the edge, the bust and legends are clear and well-struck. This is an unmissable opportunity to bid on an extremely rare coin.

The coin section also includes several other intriguing lots, such as a William I PAXS Penny, originally purchased from Baldwins before the Second World War (estimate: £300-400). Additionally, we have a fantastic example of a George I Halfcrown from 1715 (estimate: £700-1,000); all halfcrowns from George I's reign are scarce, making this high-grade piece especially desirable. Another highlight is a George VI Proof Sovereign from 1937 (estimate: £1,500-1,800). Gold coins from George VI's reign are rare and sought after, with only 5,501 sovereigns minted.

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