© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Tetarteron - Richard the Lionheart ND
| Bronze | 1.03 g | 17.0 mm |
| Issuer | Kingdom of Cyprus (Crusader and Christian states in the Eastern Mediterranean) |
|---|---|
| Lord | Richard I (1191-1192) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1191-1192 |
| Value | Tetarteron |
| Currency | Denier (1192-1489) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 1.03 g |
| Diameter | 17.0 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#124737 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cross in the centre on a base and three steps and with th latin letters R,E and X attached on the crosses arms. Beaded ring on the rim.
Lettering: R E X
Comment
According to Bendall, this coin, which was previously accredited to the Principality of Antioch, is a coin produced by Richard the Lionhearted during his capture of Cyprus. [S. Bendal. A Cypriot Coin of Richard I Lion-heart?, The Numismatic Circular, April 2002 pp.63,64].Furthermore, Ingrid and Wolfgang Schultze , argue that the coin could be an issue for the occasion of the marriage of Richard the Lionheart with Berengaria Navarre in Limassol on May 12, 1191. [I. Schultze, A Cypriot Coin of Richard I Lion-heart?, Spink Numismatic Circular, February 2003, pp.6-8]
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Tetarteron coin is that it features an image of Richard the Lionheart, who was a prominent figure in the Third Crusade and known for his military conquests in the Middle East. Despite being issued in Cyprus, the coin's design and imagery reflect the strong cultural and religious ties that the Kingdom of Cyprus had with the Crusader states in the region during that time.