Edgar 'the Peaceful' coin value guide
Edgar · 959–975 · Penny
Denominations
Penny
Reign
959–975
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
Edgar — known as 'the Peaceful' — is best remembered numismatically for the great coinage reform of c.973, which replaced England's varied regional coinages with a single standardised penny carrying the king's portrait, the mint name and the moneyer. His pennies fall into two broad groups: the earlier pre-reform regional issues, and the uniform Reform Small Cross type that became the template for the English penny for the next 150 years.
Pre-reform pennies use a range of regional designs and vary in scarcity; the Reform portrait pennies are among the most historically important late Anglo-Saxon coins, which keeps demand strong. As always, value turns on type, mint, grade and provenance — a sharp, well-centred coin with a clear portrait is worth far more than a weakly struck or damaged example.
Value by type
England's staple silver coin. Edgar's c.973 reform fixed its design, weight and the mint-and-moneyer formula. Typically 1.3–1.5g of silver.
| Type | Rarity |
|---|---|
Pre-Reform issues c. 959–973 Regional designs (small cross, circumscription cross and bust types) struck before the reform. | Various — some scarce |
Reform Small Cross (Portrait) c. 973–975 Diademed bust with mint and moneyer; the template for the late Saxon penny. | Popular — key historical type |
What drives the value
Type & rarity
The historically important Reform portrait pennies, and scarcer pre-reform regional designs, command more than the commoner issues in collectable grade.
Mint & moneyer
Edgar's reform put the mint and moneyer on every coin. Rare mints and sought-after moneyer signatures carry a clear premium over common issues.
Grade & surfaces
A full, sharp strike with a clear portrait and legible legends commands the most. Weak striking, peck marks, chips and cracks all reduce value.
Provenance
A pedigree to a named cabinet or a recorded hoard such as the Tetney hoard can add both value and confidence in authenticity.
Frequently asked questions
How much is an Edgar penny worth?
Value depends on type, mint, grade and provenance — pre-reform regional designs and the historically important Reform portrait pennies sit at different levels, and rare mints and high grade command a clear premium. Use the valuation tool for a figure based on realised prices for comparable coins.
Why is Edgar important for English coinage?
His coinage reform of about 973 created a single standardised currency across England, with the king's portrait, mint and moneyer on every penny — a system that endured into the 12th century.
What is the difference between pre-reform and reform pennies?
Pre-reform pennies (c. 959–973) use varied regional designs, while reform pennies (c. 973–975) are the uniform Small Cross portrait type. The reform issues are generally the more sought-after.
Did Edgar strike any coins other than pennies?
No — the silver penny was the only denomination. Cut halves and quarters provided small change.