Medieval Armenian Bronze Kardez - Cilician Armenia 1226-1270 AD - Hetoum I
- Obverse: Hetoum king of the Armenians, crowned king seated on a bench-like throne, holding a royal mace in his right hand a cross in his left.
- Reverse: Simple cross with a crescent in the first quadrant and pellets in all the others.
- Date: 1226-1270 AD
- Size: 17 mm, 2.89 g
- Composition: Bronze
- Internal SKU: 148X1160
HISTORICAL NOTE: Embrace the rich history of medieval Cilician Armenia with this exquisite bronze Kardez, minted during the reign of King Hetoum I from 1226 to 1270 AD. Hetoum I, a notable ruler of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia, was instrumental in forging alliances with both the Byzantine Empire and the Crusader states, showcasing Armenia's pivotal role at the crossroads of East and West during the tumultuous Middle Ages. Under his leadership, the kingdom experienced a renaissance of arts and culture, driven by the influx of trade and diverse influences. This coin, a tangible piece of that era, reflects the resilience and ingenuity of the Armenian people as they navigated a complex geopolitical landscape, making it a fascinating addition to any collection of medieval artifacts.
