Half augustalis with representation of emperor Frederick II (1194-1250) (back side)

This gold coin embossment of Emperor Frederick II (1194-1250) was first documented in 1231. It is one of the most famous gold coins of the Middle Ages due to its artistic and technical perfection as well as the rather untimely, antique-like portrayal of the emperor. The design of the coin - the imperial bust and the eagle - reflects the understanding of history of the last Hohenstaufen emperor, who deliberately saw himself in the continuity of the Roman emperors.