Bezant - Henry II ND (1285-1306) front Bezant - Henry II ND (1285-1306) back
Bezant - Henry II ND (1285-1306) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Bezant - Henry II ND

 
Electrum 3.83 g 28.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Kingdom of Cyprus (Crusader and Christian states in the Eastern Mediterranean)
King
Henry II (1285-1306)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1285-1306
Value
1 Bezant = 2 Gros = 48 Denier
Currency
Denier (1192-1489)
Composition
Electrum
Weight
3.83 g
Diameter
28.0 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#124715
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Full-length figure of Henry standing facing, crowned and wearing royal robes, holding long cross with crossbar on shaft, ending in double pellet, and globus cruciger. Small cross on the right of Henry.

Lettering: h RЄ[I D´] IhR L’m : Є D´ hIP

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Bezant coin is that it was used as a form of currency in the Kingdom of Cyprus during the Crusader period, and it was made of electrum, a rare and valuable metal that was highly prized for its durability and beauty.