Ancient Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem Cross Coin Set in 14k Brushed Gold Pendant

Pendant Size: 2.7 cm – 1.06" Inches – By – 1.9 cm – 0.75" Inch

Total Weight: 2.05 Grams

Obverse: Patted Cross and the lettering Balvinvs Rex

Reverse: Tower of David in Jerusalem and the Lettering DEIERVSALEM (Of Jerusalem)

Kingdom of Jerusalem was established in 1099 during first crusade, by Godfrey of Bouillon in Southern Levant. Its nearly two centuries of existence were accompanied by nearly constant warfare. Eight Coin mints were in operation: Jerusalem, Acra, Tyre, Damietta, Krak de Moab, Jaffa, Beirut and Sidon

Baldwin III’s coinage is divided into a crudely executed “rough” series and a later “smooth” series of finer style. The obverse bears a short cross, surrounded by the king’s name and title: BALDVINUS REX. The reverse depicts the “Tower of David” – an ancient stone citadel built against the city walls that served as a fortified palace. The reverse inscription DE IERUSALEM (“of Jerusalem”) continues from the obverse.

Baldwin III of Jerusalem was born in 1130 to Fulk of and Melisende of Jerusalem, and he came from the Catholic French House of Anjou. At only 13 years old Baldwin succeeded his father as king of Jerusalem after his death in a hunting accident, The young ruler soon proved his courage and skill and grew to be a highly respected king of an engaging personality, wide interests, and considerable administrative and diplomatic ability, in the year 1153 he conquered Ascalon, the last port still in Muslim hands, and in 1157 he allied with the Byzantine Empire. When Baldwin III died (Feb. 10, 1163) he was mourned by friend and foe alike. The historian William of Tyre eulogized him as the ideal king of Jerusalem.