2021-02-02 Tue

The Battle of Lincoln, or the First Battle of Lincoln, occurred on 2 February 1141 between King Stephen of England and forces loyal to Empress Matilda. Stephen was captured during the battle, imprisoned, and effectively deposed while Matilda ruled for a short time.

Empress Matilda was one of the claimants to the English throne during the civil war known as the Anarchy. In 1141 Empress Matilda became the first female ruler of England, adopting the title 'Lady of the English'.

She is best known in history for the civil war sparked by her fight against her cousin Stephen to win the throne of England for herself and her descendants.

Matilda issued two types of coins in her name during her time in England, which were used in the west of England and Wales. The first was initially minted in Oxford during her stay there, and the design was then adopted by her mints at Bristol, Cardiff, and Wareham after her victory at the Battle of Lincoln. A second design was minted at Bristol and Cardiff during the 1140s.

Image Source: Wikipedia.org