Debora Neudorf, M.A.

Runes and Riches: A Study of (Pre-)Old English Runic Coins in Precious Metals

Dissertation Project

As regulated artefacts produced within established monetary frameworks, coins offer a unique perspective on how writing, power, and economy intersected in early medieval society. This dissertation project investigates gold- and silver-based coins bearing runic inscriptions from the Pre-Old English through the Old English period. Building on prior research into three early runic gold solidi, the study expands the scope to a comprehensive corpus of precious-metal coinage inscribed with (Pre-)Old English runes. The project adopts an interdisciplinary approach that integrates runology, archaeology, numismatics, and history. Each object is analysed as a material, linguistic, and historical artefact, taking into account production techniques, metal composition, iconography, find context, circulation, and broader political and economic conditions. Geographically, the study focuses on Anglo-Saxon England while incorporating relevant continental material—especially from Frisia—where issues of cultural or linguistic attribution arise. By treating runic coins as a coherent corpus rather than isolated objects, the project aims to produce an integrated reference study of this material. In doing so, it seeks to refine interpretations of individual inscriptions, illuminate patterns of cultural contact and mobility in the North Sea region, and contribute to broader discussions of early medieval literacy, authority, and economic exchange.

Supervisor: Apl. Prof. Dr. Gaby Waxenberger