A resource for collectors, metal-detectorists and students
Short Cross Pennies
Class 3
Class 3ab1 (c.1190-c.1194) - Spink 1347; North 967
The bust on coins of class 3ab1 tends to be longer and narrower than many of those found on class 2, but two diagnostic features provide the best means of distinguishing between them. Firstly, the crown band now usually has seven pearls, and secondly the beard, which consists of tiny wiry curls, extends up each side of the face. The hair is depicted as clusters of small wiry curls. The letter N has four serifs, which assists with the identification of 1c/3 mules.
Mints: Canterbury, Carlisle(?), Exeter(?), London, Northampton, Winchester, York
Class 3ab2 (c.1190-c.1194) - Spink 1347; North 967
The bust of class 3ab2 is similar to that of 3ab1, except that the hair is now depicted by larger, more orderly and countable crescents. The beard is variable, often appearing a little less wiry than in 3ab1, but continues to extend up each side of the face. As with 3ab1, there are usually seven pearls in the crown band. The letter N has four serifs, which assists with the identification of 1c/3 mules.
Mints: Canterbury, Carlisle, Exeter, London, Northampton, Winchester, York
Class 3 Note
Under the Lawrence classification, this class was divided on the basis of the size of the king's head, the larger and smaller forms being assigned to classes designated 3a and 3b respectively.