Sicily

Frederick I, King of Sicily and Naples 1197-1250

Spahr 100, PCGS-graded AU-50

One of the most desirable coins showing the Sicilian eagle. Well centered and evenly struck, a pleasing example of this classic rarity.

Federico, as he was known in Italy, fulfilled his father’s wish for a 5th crusade, beginning in 1217, although he himself remained safely in Sicily. The crusade ended in its sound defeat in 1221. After his death, the House of Hohenstaufen soon came to an end. Frederick is otherwise remembered for investing the Teutonic Order with the territories that would later become East Prussia.