FRANCE, Aquitaine: William X (1127-37), AR Denier. 1.09g, 18mm.
Obv: +CVVILILMO. Four crosslets around an annulet.
Rev: +BVRDEGVLA. Legend around cross patee.
Roberts 4309, Duplessy 1022
William X was the father of one of the most important women in western European history: Eleanor of Aquitaine. He was also an enthusiastic participant in the feudal conflicts of the 12th century. William's lack of a male heir would have significant consequences. On his deathbed, he asked king Louis VI to find a suitable husband for his eldest daughter and heir, Eleanor. Since she would be duchess of a large and wealthy area of the kingdom of France, Louis naturally chose his own son, Louis VII.