During the 13th century, Crusaders from throughout Europe massed their armies in an effort to recapture the Holy Land from the Muslims.

Small coins were minted in great quantity to pay the troops. They ultimately became the standard currency for the common people. These Crusader coins were so popular & widely accepted that they continued to be minted for three centuries.

The obverse of this coin (a denaro) features a Jerusalem cross & the king's name in the legend. The reverse depicts a castle. A similar design for the Jerusalem cross was displayed on much of the coinage of the Spanish Empire until almost the 19th century.

Christopher Columbus was born in Genoa, an important trading center where, during that time, Crusader coins were abundantly minted. Many experts believe that he may have had these small coins with him when he first sailed to America in 1492.

Authentic Crusader coin with a cross on one side and Tower of Jerusalem on the other, set in a polished, smooth 14K gold square wire frame with four grooved prongs and a grooved bail. Each mounting is handcrafted to fit and protect the coin. 

• Denomination: AR Denaro
• Reign: Conrad III
• Mint: Genoa, Italy
• Date: 1200-1527 AD
• Pendant measures 1 1/4" length
• Coin comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Item #8851