John Silver Penny Coin

Coins from the reign of King John (1199–1216) are historically significant as they span the era of the Magna Carta. Like his brother Richard I, John’s English coins continued to bear the name of his father, hENRICVS (Henry II). Valuable specimens are typically defined by rare mints like King’s Lynn or exceptionally preserved Irish issues where his name actually appears.

Valuable King John Silver Pennies
The most valuable English pennies are from “Class 5” or “Class 6,” where the rarity of the mint and moneyer determines the price.
Short Cross Penny, King’s Lynn Mint: This is arguably the rarest mint for King John. A very rare “Class 5b2” specimen from the moneyer Iohan is currently valued at approximately £695 at Sovereign Rarities.
Short Cross Penny, London Mint (Class 6c3): A rare variant by the moneyer Rauf is valued at approximately £292 on eBay.
Short Cross Penny, Lincoln Mint: Very rare specimens, such as “Va2/Vb1” mules from the moneyer Andrev, have previously sold for around £275 at Chiltern Coins.
Short Cross Penny, Canterbury Mint (Class 4c): Standard but high-quality examples can reach £465 at The Royal Mint.

King John’s Irish Coinage
Unlike his English coins, John’s Irish coinage (as both Lord and King) features his own name, IOhANNES.

Irish Penny, Dublin Mint: Coins struck between 1207–1211 by the moneyer Roberd are valued starting from £228 at BullionByPost.
Irish Halfpennies and Farthings: Struck as Lord of Ireland (1180s), these are sought after for their unique “Moon-face” portrait.