How to Identify Old Normandy Coins
In 1066, William, Duke of Normandy, conquered England. English silver pennies became the standard coinage of both territories. These old Normandy coins eventually were replaced by medieval French coinage after the Duchy's incorporation into France in the 13th Century.
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Instructions
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1
Weigh the coin to determine that it is the proper denomination. Pennies were the only Norman coin actually issued. Half-pence were simply pennies cut in half. There are 240 pence in one pound. A Norman penny should weigh about 1.2 to 1.3 grams, or a little less than 1/240 of a troy pound.
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2
Examine the portrait on the front of the coin. Norman coins bear the images of the following kings: William I, William II, Stephen, Henry I and John.
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3
Read the inscriptions on the coin. These must be in Latin. Texts include the place of minting and the king's name, both usually abbreviated.
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4
Look at the image on the back of the coin. Many Norman coins feature some variety of cross, as well as stars, flowers and rings.
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Check the coin for slight indications of hammer blows. Norman coins of this period are exclusively hammered coins. The designs are relatively simple and were created by striking the coin with a hammer and die.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not discount a coin if it is not the exact weight. Weights vary slightly and always will be less than 1/240 troy pound, or 1.56 grams.
A coin with very precise features is automatically suspect. The features should appear somewhat stylized. These images were made before the Renaissance and should not appear so naturalistic.
