Penning, Götaland, Erik Eriksson, 1222–1229, 1234–1250

A bird of prey stands here, facing right. The wings are unfurled, as if the bird is ready to fly. The large wings, feathered legs and curved beak indicate that this is a golden eagle.

Apart from the images found on rock carvings, this is one of the oldest images of an eagle in Sweden. The eagle is a common symbol and often appears on coats of arms. The coin is thought to have been minted for King Erik Eriksson in 1234 to 1240, but its date is uncertain. It may have been minted in Lödöse, in Götaland.

There are also a couple of pennings depicting a golden eagle that are of Svealand weight and size.

Image rights: Helena Bonnevier, Ekonomiska museet - Kungliga myntkabinettet/SHM (CC BY 4.0)

Object number: 100479_KMK

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