Coins of the Conquest at Lincoln Castle

A collection of 11th-century coins, which were minted in Lincoln and span the reigns of three Kings of England – Edward the Confessor, Harold II (Godwinson) and William I (the Conqueror) – are now on public display at Lincoln Castle.

The display compares the ways the monarchs are portrayed in the coins and in scenes from the Bayeux Tapestry, telling a fascinating story of continuity and change during one of the most defining chapters of our national story.

Coins of the Conquest is Lincoln Castle’s latest contribution to ‘Bayeux Around Britain, supported by WorldQuant’ – a nationwide programme designed by the British Museum to communicate the story and significance of the Bayeux Tapestry to as many people as possible.

It follows the arrival of Hastings, a magnificent dragon sculpture named after the monumental battle in 1066 and inspired by the mythical beasts that appear throughout the Bayeux Tapestry.

Kim Vickers, Culture Service Manager at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The arrival of the Bayeux Tapestry on UK shores for the first time in almost a millennium is a once in a generation event and has really inspired us to showcase Lincolnshire’s own remarkable Norman heritage – inside the medieval walls of one of William the Conqueror’s great castles.

“Hastings has already proved an instant hit with visitors, providing the perfect scaly backdrop to thousands of selfies, and we’re delighted to continue that momentum with this fascinating Coins of the Conquest display.

“Without television, newspapers or social media to share images of the king, coins played a vital role: they truly were the mass media of their day. It is such a privilege to host this extraordinary collection of them in the heart of the city where they were minted a thousand years ago.

“I hope all our visitors enjoy the opportunity to experience these amazing artefacts up close.”

The Coins of the Conquest display takes pride of place alongside one of only four original surviving copies of the 1215 Magna Carta and can be enjoyed until March 2027.

Plan your visit now at www.lincolncastle.com