🏰 Anglo‑Saxon Silver Penny – Offa, King of Mercia (757–796 AD)  

Heavy Coinage Issue (c. 792–796) – Canterbury Mint, Moneyer Babba 🏰

Presented here is an exceptional and very rare silver penny of King Offa, the most powerful Anglo‑Saxon ruler before Alfred the Great. Struck during the late phase of his reign, this Heavy Coinage issue from Canterbury showcases the artistry and authority of Mercia at its zenith.

⚔️ Obverse  

+OFFA REX m 

Central rosette within a circle, surrounded by the royal legend naming Offa. A bold and elegant design typical of his prestigious late‑reign issues.

🛡️ Reverse  

BABBA 

The name of the moneyer Babba, with m and annulets above and a distinctive pattern of crescents below. A visually striking and highly collectible reverse type.

📐 Specifications

Mint: Canterbury

Date: Circa 792–796 AD

Material: Silver (AR)

Weight: ⚖️ 1.42 g

Diameter: 19 mm

References: Chick 219e = SCBI Mack 569 (this coin); North 319; Spink 908

💎 Condition  

Very Fine – A handsome specimen with rich old cabinet toning and sharp detail. Rarely encountered in such high preservation.

📚 Historical Significance 📜

Offa’s reign marked the height of Mercian dominance in Anglo‑Saxon England. His coinage reflects both political ambition and economic sophistication, with Canterbury serving as a major minting center. The moneyer Babba is known from only a small number of dies, making his issues particularly scarce. This coin stands as a tangible link to one of the most influential rulers of early medieval Britain.

🏰 A premium and very rare example of Offa’s heavy coinage—ideal for advanced collectors of Anglo‑Saxon and early English numismatics.  

Authentic. Rare. Historically important.