Bezant - Hugh I ND (1205-1218) front Bezant - Hugh I ND (1205-1218) back
Bezant - Hugh I ND (1205-1218) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Bezant - Hugh I ND

 
Electrum 3.7 g 28 mm
Description
Issuer
Kingdom of Cyprus (Crusader and Christian states in the Eastern Mediterranean)
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
References
Numista
N#122476
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.