✨ Medieval Sicily — Hohenstaufen Coinage Spotlight ✨
Henry VI & Constance – AR Denaro, Brindisi (1194–1196)
A historically important silver denaro struck during the short joint reign of Henry VI, Holy Roman Emperor, and Constance of Sicily, rightful heiress of the Norman kingdom. This specimen is near to extremely fine, an exceptional grade for this rare early medieval issue.
Obverse: + HE INPERATOR – Cross potent with two stars in the field
Reverse: + C INPERATRIX – Letters A P in field
Mint: Brindisi
Weight: 0.95 g
Diameter: 17 mm
Metal: AR (silver)
References: Spahr 31; MIR 257; D’Andrea 49
Condition: Near to extremely fine
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👑 A Coin of Conquest and Dynastic Legitimacy
Struck between 1194 and 1196, this issue marks the moment when Henry VI claimed the Kingdom of Sicily through his marriage to Constance, the last legitimate descendant of the Hauteville dynasty. Their dual appearance on the coinage symbolizes both imperial conquest and hereditary right.
Henry styles himself “Imperator”, projecting imperial power after his rapid takeover of southern Italy, while Constance appears as “Imperatrix”, asserting her rightful lineage to the Sicilian crown.
🌟 Symbolism & Design
The cross potent on the obverse evokes imperial, Norman, and crusader traditions, while the two stars add a unique decorative and possibly symbolic element.
The reverse’s A P monogram remains debated—possibly a mint signature, moneyer’s mark, or administrative control symbol from Brindisi.
🧭 A Short Reign, A Rare Coin
With their joint rule lasting barely two years, the coinage of Henry and Constance is naturally limited. Surviving examples—especially in such high condition—are prized references to one of the most dramatic successions in Sicilian medieval history.
A compact yet powerful artifact, capturing the exact moment when the Hohenstaufen dynasty replaced the Normans on the Sicilian throne.