Crusader Lead Token (12–14th Century)

Tokens such as these were used in 12^th–13^th centuries Europe as a cheap substitute for bronze, silver, and gold, at a time when growing commerce created an ever rising need for coins. Muslims of the time had no use for such tokens, ergo — this token (and others like it) was probably dropped by a member of the Crusader state, perhaps one of the Knights Templar who made their home in the Temple Mount itself. Apart from their monetary use, these tokens, found throughout the provinces of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, were used as counting tokens and game pieces.

Obverse: Waterwheel within radial border

Reverse: Cross within radial border