ABSTRACT
This paper aims to explore communis patria, one of the facets of the rich relationship between Anglo-Saxon England and Rome. The time-span considered runs from the early seventh century, following the conversion to Christianity and the establishing of an independent coinage, to the tenth century. Three stages of Anglo-Saxon monetary history will be mapped as a progression which saw the Anglo-Saxons initially as beneficiaries of Rome and later as its active benefactors. This chapter will mainly, but not exclusively, deal with Anglo-Saxon coins and explore the evidence they can offer us of England’s relations with Rome. I shall also touch upon the theme of pilgrimage in this light.
