½ Gros - Hugh IV no field marks ND
| Silver | 2.27 g | 19.5 mm |
| Issuer | Kingdom of Cyprus (Crusader and Christian states in the Eastern Mediterranean) |
|---|---|
| King | Hugh IV (1324-1359) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1324-1359 |
| Value | ½ Gros (12) |
| Currency | Denier (1192-1489) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.27 g |
| Diameter | 19.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#265046 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Cross of Jerusalem
Lettering: + IERVSAL'M E DE ChIPRE
Translation: Jerusalem and Cyprus
Comment
Gros Petits (1/2 Gros) were probably all minted at one mint, in 3 officinas - no obverse field marks, B in left field and C in left field. Gros grands were probably all minted at Nicosia, gros petits at Famagusta (based on volumes found)Varieties exist, based on the style of V in 'HVGVE'; the spelling of Hugue and Ierusal'm; and the hem at the king's throat (single or double line, or crosslet).
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the ½ Gros coin from the Kingdom of Cyprus is that it was minted during the reign of Hugh IV, who was the last king of the Lusignan dynasty and ruled from 1324 to 1359. This coin was part of a series of coins minted during his reign, which were designed to promote trade and commerce within the kingdom and beyond. Despite being a small coin, it was made of silver, which was a valuable and sought-after metal at the time, and its design featured the image of a cross, which was a symbol of the Christian faith that was prevalent in the kingdom.
