Joanna I & Louis of Taranto – Billon Denaro (1352–1362)
A fascinating billon denaro from the Second Angevin Period, struck during the joint reign of Queen Joanna I and Louis of Taranto. This coin reflects a rare moment when Joanna did not rule alone but shared authority with her second husband. Graded Very Fine, it preserves clear and attractive details.
Obverse: + LVDOVIC Z IOhA DEI GRA – Bipartite arms of Jerusalem and Anjou
Reverse: + REX Z REGIN IERL ET SICIL – Cross potent with a fleur-de-lis in each quarter
Weight: 0.51 g
Diameter: 16 mm
References: Pannuti-Riccio 3; MEC XIV, 722; MIR 33
Condition: Very Fine
This coin represents a political partnership as much as a marital one. After the assassination of Andrew of Hungary, Joanna strengthened her position by marrying Louis of Taranto, who was then acknowledged as co-ruler. Unlike her later “Joanna alone” coinage, these denari carry both rulers’ names, symbolizing shared sovereignty over the Kingdom of Naples.
The design unites the heraldic emblems of Jerusalem and Anjou, reinforcing the Angevin claim to legitimacy during a turbulent time marked by internal disputes and foreign pressure.
Joanna I (1343–1382) remains one of the most compelling figures of medieval Europe, and coins from her joint reign with Louis offer a unique window into a decade of political consolidation and dynastic strategy.