Richard I Coins

King Richard I was famed for his military prowess, fighting in both France and as part of the Third Crusade. The third of five sons to his father Henry II it seemed unlikely that Richard would become king. His older brothers passed away before their father however, lining Richard up to become king.

Richard spent much of his life away from England, and it is believed he was in England for only six months during his short ten-year reign. Opinion has been split for centuries on his reign, with some celebrating his military skills and dedication to chivalry and victory. Others however cite his absence and warrior nature as detrimental to his people, whom were left with an absent King.

Richard I coins brought little change to English coinage, and Richard is believed to have largely seen England as a resource to fund the crusades in the Holy Lands. He was rumoured to have taxed even the clergy to fund the war efforts and pay a ransom following his capture. Richard I died in 1199 after a crossbow wound turned gangrenous. With no legitimate heirs he was succeeded by his brother John.