CRUSADERS – Principality of Antioch Bohemond III (Minority, under the Regents Constance & Renaud de Châtillon, AD 1149–1163) Scarce Silver Denier This scarce silver denier was struck during the minority of Bohemond III, one of the most complex periods in the history of the Principality of Antioch. Following the death of Prince Raymond of Poitiers at the Battle of Inab (1149), the principality was governed by Constance of Antioch and her husband Renaud de Châtillon, whose turbulent regency shaped Antioch’s political and military fortunes. Obverse +BOHNVDVS Bare head of Bohemond III facing right. Reverse +ANTOCHIA Cross pattée, with a pellet in the upper-left quadrant. Historical Context Bohemond III later ruled Antioch in his own right and became a central figure in Crusader diplomacy. His reign was marked by conflicts with Levon I of Armenia, shifting alliances with the Byzantine Empire, and resistance against Muslim powers, including Saladin. Coinage from his minority is particularly scarce and reflects the continuity of authority during a time of regency and instability within the Crusader states. The Principality of Antioch, founded after the First Crusade, maintained its own monetary system and remained one of the most important Crusader strongholds in the Eastern Mediterranean until its fall to the Mamluks in 1268. Specifications Material: Silver Denomination: Denier Mint: Antioch Date: AD 1149–1163 Diameter: 16.4 mm Weight: 0.77 g (±) Die Alignment: 9h Reference: Metcalf, Crusades, 346 Condition Very nice collectible condition for this scarce Crusader issue, with legible legends and a clear cross device. Provenance: My family collection , formed before 2000. Authenticity declaration is available in PDF format upon request. Remarks An attractive and historically important Crusader denier from the minority of Bohemond III, offering insight into the governance and monetary practices of Antioch during one of its most volatile periods. Please examine the photographs carefully as they are part of the description ; images are magnified to show detail. The coin is even more appealing in hand.