Cook Islands – 2023 – 5 Dollars – History of the Crusades PRUSSIAN CRUSADE

Description

The long-running ‘Holy Crusaders’ series continues with a new release for the ‘Northern Crusades: The Prussian Crusade’. While there are more details than in the previous issues, the general concept remains the same. The coin features an antique finish and is struck on a 1 oz pure silver blank in the highest quality with an antique finish. It has a limited mintage of only 1000 pieces worldwide and comes in a beautiful box with a certificate of authenticity. This third edition in the Northern Crusades is sure to excite those who have collected the previous issues.

Coin description

The reverse of the coin features a detailed scene depicting the capture of the Prussians. On the right, there is a cameo of Hermann of Salza, who was the fourth Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights. At the top, the name “PRUSSIAN CRUSADES” is inscribed, and at the bottom, you’ll find the name “HERMANN OF SALZA” and the year 2023 (the year of issue).

On the obverse side of the coin, two stylized Templar warriors with a sword and a flag are depicted. At the top, the series name is written as “HISTORY OF THE CRUSADES.” The obverse also displays the Coat of Arms with Queen Elizabeth II and includes the inscriptions: “COOK ISLANDS” (the issuing country) and “5 DOLLARS” (the face value).

Background information

The Prussian Crusades were a series of medieval military campaigns led by the Teutonic Order and Northern European powers against the pagan Prussian tribes in the 13th century. Initiated to Christianize the region, the Crusades resulted in the establishment of the Teutonic Knights’ rule in Prussia, shaping the area’s religious and political landscape.

Hermann von Salza, a German military leader, was the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order during the Prussian Crusades. Renowned for his diplomatic skills, he forged alliances with European monarchs, strengthening the Order’s influence. Hermann played a pivotal role in the Teutonic Knights’ success in the Baltic region, leaving an enduring mark on medieval history.