Kings of Kent
765-825 AD
Monetary System
The monetary systems of both Kent and Mercia were greatly influenced by the introduction of a silver “denier” in France by Pepin in 755 AD (house of Charlemagne). We find that this new restoration of the old Roman denarius quickly spread throughout Europe and England was no exception. The English translation for “denier” was “penny” and this new silver coin was most likely first issued by Offa, King of Mercia. Nevertheless, the silver penny also appeared in Kent at quite an early date perhaps around 765 AD. This new denomination would become the cornerstone of the English monetary system for 500 years and remain as the base unit of account even into modern times. The silver half-pence appears around 871 AD in southern England.
Kings of Kent
AR Penny
AE Penny
AR Penny
AR Penny
AR Penny
