Coins of the Crusades :Cilcian Armenia

描述: Cilcian Armenia would be a unique addition to the crusader states. Founded mostly by exiles of eastern Anatolia fleeing war and persecution by the Islamic Caliphates many refugees would be invited by the Byzantine Emperor to settle along areas of the Adriatic coast . These refugees would gradually become vassals of the Byzantine Empire and would grow close adopting many thematic and religious practices of their benefactors in Constantinople. Their coinage reflects some Eastern Orthodox influence while also maintaining some Armenian tradition. The crest of the house of Rubenid Dynasty, a rampant crowned red lion facing left is featured on nearly ever issue of the series. The historical ties of the Armenians existing areas of ultimate control would also the prominent feature of many Greek Orthodox crosses in the series coinage.
Levon I would preside over the founding of the one of the Crusader States. The Kingdom of Cilcian Armenia would herald the coming of one of the most important and wealthiest Kingdoms during the era. Crowned by Papal accent on January 6, 1199 . Levon I would immediately set out to establish a proper coinage for his kingdom. The land that he had inherited from his father had been enriched by fighting as mercenaries for the Holy Roman Empire during the Crusades leaving the newly crowned King with great stockpiles of Silver to begin striking coinage.