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.  

Roger of Solerno was the first ruler to proclaim himself Prince of Antioch on his coins, rather than Servant of Christ. This could perhaps be interpreted as evidence of this ruler’s increasing confidence in his ability to maintain control over the principality. On this coin, St George is shown on horseback, slaying the dragon beneath with a spear. This is one of the earliest images of St George and the Dragon on a coin, and symbolises the triumph of good over evil. 

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