A rare coin from the reign of David I of Scotland was sold for an amazing £32,000 (about $42,777.60) at Noonans auction on September 19, 2024. This coin, which was minted in Carlisle, is special because it has never been published before. Originally, it was expected to sell for between £15,000 and £20,000, but it ended up selling for much more. The excitement around this coin attracted many collectors.
The Significance of the Coin
Jim Brown, a coin specialist at Noonans, shared that the coin’s unique design and historical importance made it stand out. He noted that although new types of medieval coins sometimes appear, this coin is quite different from others from that time.
History of Carlisle
The coin was minted in Carlisle, a city with a rich history. It was fortified by William Rufus in 1092 after being taken from the Scots. Later, Henry I rebuilt the fortress, creating the castle and towers we can see today. This coin likely comes from a time when David I was strengthening his control over Cumbria.
The Context of the Reign of David I
During David I’s rule, there were many political and military challenges. The coin might have been created to celebrate David I’s power in the region. Its design suggests a link to the fortifications in Carlisle, which is unusual in British medieval coinage.
The Aftermath of Henry I’s Death
Henry I died on December 1, 1135, which caused a lot of trouble in his kingdom. This period of unrest is known as the Anarchy, which was about a struggle for the throne between his daughter Matilda and her cousin Stephen of Blois. After claiming the throne, Stephen faced an invasion from David I of Scotland, who wanted to help Matilda and take back the land around Carlisle. By January 1136, Carlisle was under Scottish control, and David I made the castle one of his main residences until he died there in 1153.
Coin Production and Historical Context
The production of this coin fits with the discovery of silver deposits near Carlisle in the 1120s, which allowed the city to have its mint. Even after Stephen became king in 1135, coins were still made in Carlisle. This specific coin, which has a familiar style but features David I’s name, is an important piece of medieval Scottish history.
Key Highlights of the Coin Auction
| Lot Number | Description | Estimated Price (£) | Final Price (£) | Final Price ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lot 451 | Unique coin from David I’s reign | 15,000 – 20,000 | 32,000 | 42,777.60 |
Conclusion
This unique coin from David I of Scotland represents a fascinating part of British history. Its high auction price shows how much collectors value rare items like this. It reflects the complex history of the time and the importance of Carlisle as a center of power. This coin not only has financial value but also tells the story of Scotland’s past, making it a remarkable piece of history that collectors and historians admire.
FAQ’s
Why is this coin from David I special?
This coin is unique because it has a distinct design not seen in other medieval coins and was sold for a much higher price than expected at auction.
What is the history behind the coin’s minting?
The coin was minted in Carlisle during the reign of David I, a time when the city was being fortified and played a significant role in Scottish history.
What did collectors think about this coin?
Collectors showed great interest in the coin, recognizing its rarity and importance, which led to a competitive auction.