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. 2.29 grams, 28 mm (1 1/8 in.).
Found whilst searching with a metal detector on a medieval site in Wiltshire in the mid 1980s.
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. [No Reserve]
Price realized | 700 GBP |
Starting price | 5 GBP |
Estimate | 80 GBP |