Harold I 'Harefoot' coin value guide
Harold I · 1035–1040 · Penny
Denominations
Penny
Reign
1035–1040
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
Harold I, nicknamed 'Harefoot' for his speed and hunting prowess, ruled for only about five years. His pennies belong to the late Anglo-Saxon series and were struck across numerous mints, in two main types: Jewel Cross and Fleur-de-Lis.
The short reign makes Harold I scarcer than Cnut or Edward the Confessor, though common types in lower grades remain attainable. Fleur-de-Lis pennies and rare mints command the strongest prices, and the wide range of mint signatures makes the series rewarding for specialist collectors.
Value by type
The standard silver penny of late Anglo-Saxon England, struck across many mints. Typically 1.0–1.2g of silver.
| Type | Rarity |
|---|---|
Jewel Cross c. 1036–1038 Cross composed of four jewelled arms; the first type, sharing its design with Harthacnut. | Scarcer |
Fleur-de-Lis (Long Cross & Fleur-de-Lis) c. 1038–1040 Long cross with fleurs in the angles; the main type of the reign. | Scarcer — sought-after |
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 Harold I (Harefoot) penny worth?
The short reign makes them scarcer than coins of Cnut, with the Fleur-de-Lis type and rare mints commanding the strongest prices. Value depends on type, mint, grade and provenance — use the valuation tool for a figure based on realised prices for comparable coins.
Why is Harold I called 'Harefoot'?
The nickname, recorded after his lifetime, is usually taken to refer to his speed or his skill at hunting.
What types of penny did Harold I strike?
Two main types: Jewel Cross (c. 1036–38) and Fleur-de-Lis (c. 1038–40).
Are Harold I pennies rare?
They are scarcer than the plentiful Cnut and Edward the Confessor issues because his reign lasted only about five years, but they are not among the great rarities of the series.