


© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Bezant - Hugh I ND
Electrum | 3.7 g | 28 mm |
Issuer | Kingdom of Cyprus (Crusader and Christian states in the Eastern Mediterranean) |
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King | Hugh I (1205-1218) |
Type | Standard circulation coin |
Years | 1205-1218 |
Value | 1 Bezant = 2 Gros = 48 Denier |
Currency | Denier (1192-1489) |
Composition | Electrum |
Weight | 3.7 g |
Diameter | 28 mm |
Shape | Round (irregular) |
Technique | Hammered |
Demonetized | Yes |
Updated | 2024-10-04 |
Numista | N#122476 |
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Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
The King standing and facing in front. He wears a coat and a crown, holds sceptre cruciger with his right hand and a globus cruciger with his left.
Lettering: hVGO REX CYPRI
Translation: Hugo, king of Cyprus
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Bezant coin from the Kingdom of Cyprus is that it features a unique blend of Christian and Islamic influences in its design. The coin's obverse side bears the image of a cross, which is a common feature on Christian coins, while the reverse side features an Arabic inscription, indicating the influence of Islamic culture in the region. This blending of religious symbols reflects the complex history and cultural exchange that took place in the Eastern Mediterranean during the Crusader period.