Griffin - John of Heinsberg ND (1419-1455) front Griffin - John of Heinsberg ND (1419-1455) back
Griffin - John of Heinsberg ND (1419-1455) photo
© Jean Elsen & ses Fils s.a.

Griffin - John of Heinsberg ND

 
Gold 3.44 g -
Description
Issuer
Prince-bishopric of Liege (Belgian States)
Prince-bishop
John of Heinsberg (1419-1455)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1419-1455
Value
1 Gold Ecu (40)
Currency
Gros (1274-1456)
Composition
Gold
Weight
3.44 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#410445
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Ornate, floriate triple cross with small rampant lions in angles and rosette in center.

Script: Latin (uncial)

Lettering: ✠ SIT ⁑ NOMEN ⁑ DOMINI ⁑ BENEDICTVM ⁑ IN ⁑ ET'

Lettering (regular font): ✠ SIT ⁑ NOMEN ⁑ DOMINI ⁑ BENEDICTVM ⁑ IN ⁑ ET'

Interesting fact

The Griffin-John of Heinsberg coin from the Prince-bishopric of Liege (Belgian States) is a rare and valuable coin, with only a few known examples remaining in existence. One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Christian and pagan imagery, with the griffin - a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle - standing on its hind legs and holding a shield with a cross on it. This blending of religious and mythological symbols reflects the cultural and religious influences of the time period in which it was created.