Henry III (1247–1272) — Long Cross Pennies

The long cross coinage of Henry III, introduced in 1247, was designed to reduce clipping and restore confidence in the English currency. Extending the reverse cross to the edge of the flan made tampering far easier to detect, and the widespread circulation of these pennies soon led to a variety of contemporary imitations and forgeries produced on the Continent. These unofficial issues range from crude copies to surprisingly competent engravings, offering collectors a fascinating insight into cross‑Channel monetary movement and medieval attempts at deception.

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Continental Imitations and Forgeries

WEH 11017 — Penny

Penny. Continental imitation of Henry III Long Cross class 5a2. HENRICVS REX III, crowned bust facing with sceptre in right hand. ® RW / IENR / ONC / AN, long cross voided with three pellets in each angle. A coin from the same dies is featured in the publication The Long Cross Pennies of Henry III, page 81.

£115.00

WEH 11029 — Penny

Penny. Continental imitation of Henry III Long Cross class 5c. HENRICVS REX III, crowned bust facing with sceptre in right hand. ® HIE / O[?]D / IIDI / VIIE, long cross voided with three pellets in each angle. Sleaford, Lincolnshire. 18mm.

£125.00

WEH 11030 — Penny

Penny. Continental imitation of Henry III Long Cross class 5c2. HENRICVS REX III, crowned bust facing with sceptre in right hand. ® NIE / IND / ??? / VND, long cross voided with three pellets in each angle.

£125.00