Ireland Hiberno-Norse Penny Phase III, Sihtric III, NGC AU55

Ireland, Hiberno-Norse Kings, Sihtric III Olafsson (c.995-1036), silver Penny, draped bust left, blundered legend surrounding, rev. long voided cross with tri-crescent ends, pellet at centre, crude "hand" in two opposing quarters, globule in one quarter, tiny pellet in last quarter, legend with blundered Dublin mint signature, weight 0.90g (SCBI British Museum 8;126; Copenhagen 26:119-124; Ulster Museum 32:136-140; D&F 24; S.6132). Toned a little unevenly, well struck, has been slabbed and graded by NGC as AU55.

NGC certification 6330861-001.

Sihtric Olafsson, known as "Silkbeard" was the son of Olaf Cuaràn King of York, Northumbria and Dublin, and Gormflaith Ingen Murchada previously the wife of Mael Sechnaill, King of Meath and High King of Ireland. Sihtric's Father Olaf Cuaràn had ruled over Dublin from 952-980.

Sihtric was born in Dublin circa 970 and could have been King as early as 989 for a five year period, but then was either restored or actually began his reign in 995. He was briefly deposed in 1000 but was restored again shortly after, until he was forced to abdicate in 1036 by Echmarcach mac Ragnaill whereupon it is thought he died in exile in 1042. He was married to Slàine the daughter of Brian Boru the High King of Ireland, and they had five children together all of who pre-deceased him, the last dying in the same year Sihtric was thought to have died in 1042.

Achievements in his reign included establishing a Bishopric in Dublin in 1028 and the Christ Church Cathedral as well as taking a pilgrimage to Rome.

Provenance:

Ex Classical Numismatic Group, Auction 90, 23^rd May 2012, lot 2661.