Medieval Cross Pendant

Coin: Silver Denier
Obverse: Jerusalem Cross
Reverse:  Castle and Cross
Date: 1139 - 1252 A.D.
Bezel: 14k Gold
Weight:  1.85 grams
Diameter: 1.7 cm / .66 in

Description

This item is an authentic medieval coin, placed in a handmade bezel of 14k gold. There is only 1 of this item; you will receive the exact pendant shown in the photos.  

Chain necklaces can be purchased separately through this link.

History of the Artifact

This silver denaro was struck in the medieval Republic of Genoa, a powerful Italian maritime city-state, between 1139 and 1252 AD. During the 12th and 13th centuries, Genoa emerged as one of the Mediterranean's greatest commercial and naval powers, competing with Venice for control of important maritime trade routes. The city played a significant role in the Crusades, supplying ships, soldiers, and logistical support to Christian armies traveling to the Holy Land. Genoese fleets participated in major campaigns, including the sieges of Antioch in 1098 and Jerusalem in 1099, helping establish the city's lasting commercial influence in the eastern Mediterranean.

One side of the coin features a cross surrounded by the Latin inscription CONRADVS REX, referring to Conrad III, King of the Romans, who granted Genoa the right to mint coins in 1138. The opposite side depicts a stylized fortified gateway or castle, traditionally interpreted as a symbol of Genoa, accompanied by the city's name. These distinctive designs remained largely unchanged for generations, reflecting the stability of Genoa's monetary traditions and its political identity. The prominent Christian cross also reflects the religious culture of medieval Europe during the Crusading era, when Genoese merchants and sailors maintained close connections with the Crusader states of the eastern Mediterranean.

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

You will receive the exact coin pendant which is shown in the photos.

In medieval times, silver denari from the Republic of Genoa circulated widely throughout northern Italy and the Mediterranean, carried by merchants, sailors, and traders along the city's extensive commercial routes. Many were buried as personal savings or accumulated in larger hoards during periods of warfare and political uncertainty, remaining hidden for centuries when their owners never returned. Their silver content helped preserve the distinctive crosses, castle designs, and Latin inscriptions despite prolonged burial. Surviving examples originate from ancient coin hoards, legally recovered individual finds, and older private collections throughout Italy and neighboring regions. From there, they enter the modern numismatic trade through established dealers and specialist auctions, where they are examined, authenticated, and cataloged before being distributed as genuine artifacts of medieval Genoa.