Penning, Sigtuna, Olof Skötkonung, circa 995–1000

Sweden’s first coin was made in Sigtuna during the reign of King Olof Skötkonung. He was hailed as king of the Svear and Göter and resided in Västergötland and Sigtuna. Olof was the first Swedish king to be baptised and then remain a Christian, which was important for the introduction of Christianity to the country.

The coins were silver pennies, with the king’s image and name on the obverse (front) side. On the reverse (back) was a cross surrounded by an inscription showing where the coin was made and the name of the mintmaster. The motifs on the coins imitated English models. The Sigtuna coins are the oldest contemporary evidence that Olaf existed and was king of the Svear.

Image rights: Helena Bonnevier, Historiska museet/SHM (CC BY 4.0)

Object number: 119270_KMK

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