The Winchester Mint and Coins and Related Finds from the Excavations of 1961–71

This book explores the minting of silver pennies in Winchester during the reigns of Alfred the Great and Henry III, recording and illustrating over 24 million coins. Five and a half thousand survive, providing valuable insight into economic history and the changing status of Winchester.

Format: Hardback
Length: 768 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Archaeopress

This comprehensive volume, edited by Martin Biddle and featuring a catalogue of the known coins of the mint by Yvonne Harvey, delves into the rich history of silver penny minting in Winchester during the reigns of Alfred the Great and Henry III. Spanning a remarkable three and a half centuries, the Mint, located in the vicinity of the High Street, east of the present-day city's cross, witnessed the striking of an astounding 24 million silver pennies, with the possibility of up to 50 million coins being produced. While a significant number of these coins have been lost to time, a remarkable 5,500 specimens remain in museums and collections worldwide. Yvonne Harvey has meticulously sought out, photographed, and cataloged these coins, providing a detailed account of their characteristics and provenance in this publication.

The production of coin dies in Winchester during this period was a testament to the advanced monetary control system in place at the time in the western world. The Winchester moneyers, under royal authority. Authority, utilized these dies to their fullest potential, employing them to strike coins with varying sizes, weights, and numbers. By meticulously studying and analyzing the use of these dies, a team of esteemed authorities has provided a comprehensive account of the mint's fortunes throughout this period. Their findings offer valuable insights into the economic history of England and the evolving status of Winchester over centuries. Moreover, this volume serves as a rich source for the study of the city's name and the personal names of its citizens during the later Anglo-Saxon period.

The Winchester Mint played a pivotal role in the monetary system of England during the late Saxon and early Norman periods. Situated in the heart of the city, it facilitated the circulation of silver pennies, which were widely used for trade and commerce. The mint's production of coins not only helped to maintain the stability of the economy but also contributed to the development of the city's infrastructure and culture.

The coinage produced at Winchester during this period is known for its high quality and craftsmanship. The coins were struck using a standardized weight and diameter, ensuring that they were easily recognizable and accepted by merchants and consumers alike. The designs on the coins also reflected the changing political and social landscape of England, with various kings and queens depicted on the obverses and various religious symbols and imagery on the reverses.

One of the most notable features of the Winchester Mint is the large number of coins that were produced. According to historical records, the mint struck an estimated 24 million silver pennies between the reigns of Alfred the Great and Henry III. This staggering number is a testament to the mint's efficiency and the demand for silver currency in the region.

Despite the mint's success, it faced several challenges throughout its history. One of the most significant was the political instability that characterized the late Saxon and early Norman periods. The mint was often subject to raids and attacks by rival factions, which could disrupt the production of coins and damage the equipment and facilities.

Another challenge was the changing nature of the economy. As trade and commerce expanded, the demand for silver pennies declined, leading to a decline in the mint's production. This was particularly evident during the reign of Henry III, when the mint produced fewer coins than in previous years.

Despite these challenges, the Winchester Mint continued to operate until the Norman Conquest in 1066. After that, the mint was closed, and the production of coins in England was centralized in London. However, the legacy of the Winchester Mint lives on in the surviving coins that have been preserved and studied by historians and collectors. These coins provide a valuable glimpse into the economic and social history of England during the late Saxon and early Norman periods and are a testament to the skill and expertise of the moneyers who operated the mint.

In conclusion, the Winchester Mint played a crucial role in the monetary system of England during the late Saxon and early Norman periods. Its production of high-quality silver pennies facilitated trade and commerce, and its large number of coins is a testament to the mint's efficiency and the demand for silver currency in the region. Despite facing several challenges throughout its history, the mint continued to operate until the Norman Conquest and its legacy lives on in the surviving coins that have been preserved and studied by historians and collectors.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 276 x 215 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803270128