GREAT BRITAIN. Anglo-Saxon. Kings of All England. Penny, ND (ca. 991-97). London Mint; Ceolnoth, moneyer. Aethelred II. PCGS MS-62.

S-1148; N-770. Crux (BMC iii.a) type. Obverse: + ÆÐELRÆD REX Λ(NG)L(ORX), bareheaded and draped bust left; scepter to left; Reverse: + CEOLNOÐ M-O LVN, voided cross, with C - R - V - X in angles. Incredibly attractive and enticing quality for the type, this Mint State survivor presents a well centered and well executed strike along with elegant toning offering a range of iridescence. A few shallow cracks and subtle peck marks are noted, but not at all distracting.
Nicknamed “unready,” a play on his name in old English, Aethelred was decidedly more unsuccessful than his supporters of his claim to the throne would have preferred. Danish raids during the 980s upon his territories wreaked havoc and he was forced to pay tribute. He was forced to flee in 1013, though he reclaimed his throne the next year. Following his death England was fractured into a number of smaller pieces. 

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From the Paul C. Runze Collection.