The coinage of the new Crusader States was often used to communicate political and religious messages.  The Christian rulers were aware that their hold over the Holy Land was precarious, and understood the potential for coins to convey messages, asserting their authority and right to rule. 

The county of Edessa was the first Crusader State to be established in 1098, by Baldwin of Boulogne.  As the largest and most northerly state, the expansive borders, physical geography and relative isolation from other crusader lands left Edessa vulnerable. 

Consequently, the crusaders’ rule of Edessa was precarious.  In 1144, after less than fifty years, Edessa was the first Crusader State to fall, when it was captured by the Muslim ruler Zengi.   

This coin was minted by Baldwin II, successor to and cousin of Baldwin of Boulogne.  The imagery on this coin is a clear piece of propaganda, and was unusual for its depiction of a knight in armour.  The knight is holding aloft a cross with one hand, while maintaining a firm grasp on the handle of his sword with the other.  As the coin circulated throughout the state, the people of Edessa would have been reminded their ruler’s devout faith and his preparedness to defend this holy state. 

The Museum has a collection of over 800 coins from the Crusader States.  If you would like to find out more about these coins, and other fascinating objects please visit www.bearersofthecross.org.uk