This type of coin was first introduced around 1202 A.D. to raise funds for the infamous Fourth Crusade, and remaining in use for more than a century and a half as the standard dollar of Southeastern Europe. OBVERSE: Nibate St. Mark, to right, presents royal standard to robed and bearded Doge*. REVERSE: Christ enthroned, with Gospels on left knee.
* Pietro Gradenigo-Doge (Duke) Circa 1289-1301