Following eight bloody months, the crusaders secured control over Antioch in June 1098. It was the second Crusader State to be formed, situated precariously on the frontier of Christendom.  Not long after, in 1144, the nearby state of Edessa fell, demonstrating the fragility of Christian rule in the Latin East. 

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 fragile, and understood the potential for coins to convey messages asserting their authority and right to rule.  

This coin shows an unusual image of a bust in profile, wearing mail and a helmet with a prominent cross.  It looks very different to those of Tancred and Roger of Solerno – not only is it a different colour, but it is much smaller and thinner, with a sharper image. It is a billion denier introduced by the rulers of Antioch from the mid-1100s. A western style of currency, it is a move away from the Byzantine coppers which would have been usual in the area, and may demonstrate the rulers’ increased confidence and the region’s improved economic security.  

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