Crusader Silver Denier Coin – Principality of Antioch 1163-1201 AD – Bohemond III
Class C Type 11 (Allen)
Obverse: Helmeted head left marked with cross pattee, coif mail composed of crescents, five pointed star right, crescent left.
Reverse: Cross pattee, with crescent pointing downward in second angle (Hollow circles variety)
Date: 1163-1201 AD
Size: 17mm, .78g
Composition: Silver
Metcalf1# 378, MAL# 67d, N# 55126
HISTORICAL NOTE:
Bohemond III inherited the principality of Antioch, a Crusader state established after the First Crusade, and he ruled from 1163 to 1201. His silver coins, struck in the name of Antioch, typically bear inscriptions in Latin or Greek and feature various religious and heraldic symbols.
These coins often display a cross on the obverse, emphasizing the Christian nature of the Crusader states, along with inscriptions identifying the ruler or the principality of Antioch. The reverse side might depict symbols such as a lion, eagle, or other heraldic elements associated with the ruling family.
These coins were a means of asserting authority, displaying allegiance to Christianity, and facilitating trade within the region and with other Crusader states and neighbouring territories.