Cnut 'the Great' coin value guide
Cnut · 1016–1035 · Penny
Denominations
Penny
Reign
1016–1035
What a coin is worth depends on its exact type, mint, grade and provenance — the type tables and value factors below explain what drives each one.
About these coins
Cnut the Great ruled England, Denmark and Norway, and his English pennies are among the most widely available late Anglo-Saxon coins, struck in huge numbers at mints across the country. They fall into three main types issued in sequence across his reign: Quatrefoil, Pointed Helmet and Short Cross.
Common types in collectable grades are very affordable, which makes Cnut a popular entry point into the late Saxon series. Rarer mints, sharp portraits and high grade lift prices considerably. Like other coins of the period, many show peck marks from Scandinavian hoards.
Value by type
The staple silver penny, struck in large numbers across Cnut's North Sea empire. Typically 1.0–1.2g of silver.
| Type | Rarity |
|---|---|
Quatrefoil c. 1016–1023 Bust within a quatrefoil; the first and one of the most plentiful types. | Common |
Pointed Helmet c. 1023–1029 Helmeted bust; a popular and distinctive design. | Common |
Short Cross c. 1029–1035 Small bust with a short voided cross; rarer mints command more. | Common |
What drives the value
Type & rarity
Within a single reign, common types in collectable grade sit far below the scarce and rare types. Identifying the exact type is the first step in any valuation.
Mint & moneyer
Coins of rare mints, or with sought-after moneyer or privy-mark signatures, carry a clear premium over the common major-mint issues.
Grade & surfaces
A full, sharp strike with a clear portrait or design and legible legends commands the most. Weak striking, chips, cracks and corrosion all reduce value.
Provenance
A pedigree to a named cabinet or a recorded hoard adds both value and confidence in authenticity, especially for scarcer and higher-grade pieces.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Cnut penny worth?
All three main types are relatively available in collectable grade, with rare mints and high grade commanding a clear premium. The figure depends on type, mint, grade and provenance — use the valuation tool for an estimate based on realised prices for comparable coins.
What are the main types of Cnut penny?
Three, issued in sequence: Quatrefoil (c. 1016–23), Pointed Helmet (c. 1023–29) and Short Cross (c. 1029–35).
Why are Cnut pennies relatively affordable?
They were struck in very large numbers and survive in quantity, so collectable examples remain among the more accessible late Anglo-Saxon coins.
Do Cnut pennies have peck marks too?
Many do. Like other coins of the period they were hoarded in Scandinavia, where traders tested the silver with small knife nicks.