Circa 13th-14th century A.D.. Formed as a cross-crosslet, the symbol of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, with punched-point border. Cf. Mitchiner, M., Medieval Pilgrim & Secular Badges, London, 1986, items 939-41. 0.75 grams, 17.78 mm (1 1/4 in.).
The 'Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem' was an order of knighthood under the protection of the Pope, formed around 1099 AD by Duke Godfrey of Bouillon, the leader of the First Crusade. It was established for the protection of pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land and was recognised by a Papal Bull in about 1113 AD.
Found whilst searching with a metal detector near Eynsham, Oxfordshire, UK, before 1996. [No Reserve]
Price realized | 140 GBP |
Starting price | 5 GBP |
Estimate | 80 GBP |