Harold I Penny, Lincoln

Harold I (1035-40), silver Penny, jewel cross type (c.1036-38), Lincoln Mint, Moneyer Matathan Balluc, diademed bust left, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, HAR LD RECX, rev. pellet at centre of lobed cross, two inner linear circles unite lobes at centre, Latin legend and toothed border surrounding, +MAÐAN BALLVC O LIN, weight 1.16g (N.802; S.1163). A couple of small stains around edge and rim, otherwise extremely fine and extremely rare as this two name Moneyer is only recorded working in Canute's reign.

The abbreviated Latin legends translate as on the obverse "King Harold" and on reverse the moneyer "Mathan Balluc of Lincoln."

This moneyer name is unusual in that it demonstrates a first name and surname, which usually occurred if two moneyers had the same name at the same mint at the same time. Usually the senior figure demonstrating the single name, and the other probably a relative displaying two names. There is a Matathan singular working at Lincoln too who is recorded for Canute, Harold and Harthacanute, so perhaps one was the Father and the other the son or another close male relative. Interestingly North only records the Balluc moneyer name working at Lincoln for Canute helmet type and not Harold.

The Mint of Lincoln was very important as the Cathedral City of Lincoln is today with hundreds of years of Minting history, including earlier times of Viking occupation.