Griffin - John of Bavaria ND (1389-1418) front Griffin - John of Bavaria ND (1389-1418) back
Griffin - John of Bavaria ND (1389-1418) photo
© Jean Elsen & ses Fils s.a.

Griffin - John of Bavaria ND

 
Gold 3.82 g 29 mm
Description
Issuer
Prince-bishopric of Liege (Belgian States)
Prince-bishop
John of Bavaria (1389-1418)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1389-1418
Value
1 Gold Ecu (40)
Currency
Gros (1274-1456)
Composition
Gold
Weight
3.82 g
Diameter
29 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#308246
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Ornate, floriate triple cross with small rampant lions in angles. In center, small shield of Bavaria in quadrilobe

Script: Latin (uncial)

Lettering: ✠ SIT ⁑ NOMEN ⁑ DOMINI ⁑ BENEDICTVM ⁑X ⁑ HOC

Lettering (regular font): ✠ SIT ⁑ NOMEN ⁑ DOMINI ⁑ BENEDICTVM ⁑X ⁑ HOC

Translation: Blessed be the name of the Lord

Comment

Elsen estimates the coin was issued around 1412

Interesting fact

The Griffin-John of Bavaria coin from the Prince-bishopric of Liege (Belgian States) is interesting because it features a unique blend of Christian and medieval symbols. One side of the coin depicts a griffin, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, while the other side features a portrait of John of Bavaria, the Prince-Bishop of Liege from 1389 to 1418. The coin's design reflects the cultural and religious influences of the time, and its gold content makes it a valuable and sought-after collector's item.