Follis - Roger of Salerno St George -3rd type

Historical Context: This Follis was issued during the regency of Roger of Salerno (1112-1119) over the Principality of Antioch, a pivotal period for the Crusader States. Roger, nephew of Tancred, governed in the absence of Bohemond II, consolidating Latin control amidst constant conflict with surrounding Muslim powers. The issuance of distinct Latin coinage, like this St. George type, underscored the Frankish assertion of sovereignty and economic presence in the Levant, reflecting a nascent but determined Western identity in the region. Roger's regency concluded tragically with his death at the Battle of Ager Sanguinis.

Artistry: The design of this follis, featuring St. George, reflects the prevalent Christian iconography favored by the Crusaders. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the stylistic school is characteristic of Crusader workshops, which often adapted Byzantine prototypes with a more simplified, sometimes schematic, execution. St. George, a revered military saint, is typically depicted on horseback, slaying a dragon, a powerful symbol of Christian victory over evil, resonating deeply with the Crusader ethos. The "3rd type" likely denotes subtle variations in the depiction or surrounding legends, indicating a series of evolving die designs.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this follis measures approximately 22mm and weighs around 3.2 grams, though significant variability in both dimensions and weight is common for this series. High-points for wear and strike quality would typically include St. George's head, the horse's head, the lance, and the dragon's features on the obverse. Crusader bronzes frequently exhibit irregular flans, off-center strikes, and weak areas, particularly in the legends, due to hurried production and variable die states. A well-centered strike with full details on the primary devices is highly desirable for collectors and scholars.