Stephen c.1136-1145 Silver Penny – A bold VF

Stephen (1135-1154), silver Penny, c.1136-1145, Oxford mint, moneyer Swetig, substantive royal issues, Cross Moline (‘Watford’) type, BMC 1. Obv. Crowned and diademed bust facing right, holding sceptre. Rev. Cross Moline within beaded inner circle, fleur in each angle. 1.39g, die axis 4h (S.1278; North 873). The usual areas of weakness, however, struck on good quality metal with much detail visible, a bold example of the type with a pleasing full portrait of the king, desirable thus and with good overall eye appeal. A bold very fine.