The standard coin of most common everyday use in England from Anglo-Saxon times right up to the modern period has been the Penny, and it has existed in various shapes and forms for circa 1,400 years.

In 1247, during the reign of Henry III (1216-1272), Voided Long Cross Pennies (“Voided” cross meaning a cross drawn in outline with a “void” between and open ends) were introduced to replace the deteriorating short cross pennies in circulation. The long cross design was used in an attempt to stop coin clipping, as it would be more obvious if the ends of the cross were cut off. Production of these Voided Long Cross Pennies continued in the name of Henry III for seven years after his death, with production finally ceasing in 1279.