Henry II acquired Austria through one of medieval Europe's more calculated diplomatic settlements: the 1156 Privilegium Minus, by which Frederick Barbarossa elevated Austria from a marginal mark to an independent duchy, compensating Henry for surrendering Bavaria. The arrangement was essentially a buyout, and Henry's subsequent coinage — including this denier — marks the first issues struck under that ducal title.
The nickname "Jasomirgott" derives from his habitual oath, *"ja so mir Gott helfe"* — "yes, so help me God." He founded the Scots' Monastery in Vienna in 1158, two years into his reign as duke.
Henry II acquired Austria through one of medieval Europe's more calculated diplomatic settlements: the 1156 Privilegium Minus, by which Frederick Barbarossa elevated Austria from a marginal mark to an independent duchy, compensating Henry for surrendering Bavaria. The arrangement was essentially a buyout, and Henry's subsequent coinage — including this denier — marks the first issues struck under that ducal title.
The nickname "Jasomirgott" derives from his habitual oath, *"ja so mir Gott helfe"* — "yes, so help me God." He founded the Scots' Monastery in Vienna in 1158, two years into his reign as duke.