Die Sinkers Signatures on the Long Cross Coinage of Henry III – Ian Heavisides

Often unusual letter forms that are out of place in a particular class are dismissed as errors or die sinkers whims and of little real significance.  This article explores the idea that at least some irregularities were very deliberate attempts by the die sinker to identify his work.  In this article the work and signature letter of a particular die sinker is followed through from its introduction in Class 5b2 through to Class 5h and concludes with a table that shows in which classes this unique “signature” can be found.

I would be very pleased to hear from anyone who has additional examples of these letter styles; I can be contacted via the comment section below.

Since publishing this article an update has been produced – please see the August 7th blog article.