Description

The Denaro was struck in Genoa, Italy, the birthplace of Columbus, between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries. Similar in size and style to small silver European coins issued during the Crusader period, they became one of the major trade coins circulated in the Eastern Mediterranean from the end of the Crusades until the middle of the millennium. Hoards of Denaros have been unearthed in such diverse locations as Tripoli, Lebanon, and Syria. Featured on the obverse of the coin is the cross of Jerusalem or the Maltese cross. The Maltese cross is a symbol of the Christian warrior, of protection, a badge of honor. While the Knights of St. John, a band of courageous crusaders, fought the Saracens for possession of the Holy Land. This coin was handset in a 14kt pendant.