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Tyrants of the Thames
1
GOLD THRYSMA (616-640 AD)
Eadbald, King of Kent, 616-640 AD
London mint. Armored portrait facing right; reverse, central cross upon globe, legend around beaded
inner circle. Exceedingly rare. The earliest coins struck from native gold in Anglo-Saxon England were
minted circa 630 AD, and within 50 years these had given way to a silver coinage, first called the Sceat
and then for centuries called the Penny. This coin was the first ever to name its issuing king! Only a few
pieces are known, this specimen being the finest in private hands. One of the great treasures of the Tyrant
Collection. Lustrous on a full flan with bold details on each side, including the legend.
S-758. PCGS-graded MS64.
2
“TWO EMPERORS” PALE-GOLD THRYSMA
Anonymous Issuer, Early Anglo-Saxon, 650-675 AD
Helmeted portrait facing right; reverse, central bust of angel with wings above and facing “emperors”
on each side, style distinctly borrowed from a Roman gold solidus (S-741) of Magnus Maximus. The
earliest coins struck from native gold in Anglo-Saxon England were minted circa 630 AD and within 50
years had given way to a silver coinage, first called the Sceat and then for centuries the Penny. Struck on
a full flan, showing boldly detailed motifs and legend, with pleasing gold toning.
S-767. PCGS-graded AU53.
3
TRANSITIONAL PRE-PRIMARY PHASE
PALE GOLD THRYSMA
Anonymous Issuer, Early Anglo-Saxon, 675-680 AD
Diademed bust facing right; reverse, cross with annulet, legends in runic letters. Normal odd-shaped
flan, clear image and letters, ancient grayish patina.
S-770. PCGS-graded XF45.