Cilician Armenia Æ Pogh - Roupen I

Posted on: December 1, 2025

keywords: --- ## Introduction The Æ Pogh coin, issued under the leadership of Roupen I in Cilician Armenia, stands as a significant piece in the realm of numismatics. This bronze coin, minted between 1080 and 1095, offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of medieval Armenia. Collectors and historians alike value this coin not only for its rarity but also for the stories it tells about the Armenian kingdom during a pivotal era in its history. ## Historical Background The Æ Pogh was issued during the reign of Roupen I, the founder of the Roupenian dynasty in Cilician Armenia. This period was marked by the establishment of a semi-independent Armenian principality in the wake of the Byzantine Empire's waning influence in the region. Roupen I, a pivotal figure in Armenian history, laid the foundations for what would become a flourishing Armenian kingdom. The issuance of this coin symbolizes the assertion of Armenian identity and sovereignty during a time of political fragmentation in the Near East. ## Design Features The design of the Æ Pogh reflects the artistry and cultural symbolism of its time. On the obverse, the coin features a cross-in-circle motif, surrounded by Armenian script. This design element not only serves as a religious symbol but also as a representation of the Christian faith, which was central to Armenian identity. The reverse mirrors this design, further emphasizing the importance of the cross in Armenian culture. The inscriptions, although worn with age, provide a linguistic link to the past, offering insights into the language and script used during Roupen I's reign. ## Technical Specifications The Æ Pogh is crafted from bronze, a common material choice for coinage in the medieval period due to its durability and accessibility. The coin weighs approximately 1.69 grams and measures 21.00 mm in diameter. These dimensions are typical for coins of this era, designed for ease of use in everyday transactions. The coin's composition and specifications make it a durable artifact, capable of withstanding the passage of time. ## Collectible Value As a numismatic piece, the Æ Pogh of Roupen I holds significant value. Its rarity is attributed to the limited minting period and the historical context of its issuance. Collectors prize this coin for its connection to the early Armenian principality and its representation of medieval Armenian coinage. The rarity and historical significance of the Æ Pogh often result in a high market value, making it a sought-after piece among collectors specializing in medieval or Armenian numismatics. ## Conclusion The Æ Pogh coin of Roupen I is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in Armenian history. Its unique design and historical significance make it an invaluable addition to any numismatic collection. As a testament to the Armenian spirit and identity during a time of change and challenge, this coin continues to captivate collectors and historians alike. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of numismatics, the Æ Pogh offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, enriching our understanding of medieval Armenia and its enduring legacy.

[SEO TITLE]: Discover the Æ Pogh of Roupen I from Cilician Armenia - A Numismatic Treasure [SEO DESCRIPTION]: Explore the rare Æ Pogh coin of Roupen I from Cilician Armenia. [KEYWORDS]: Æ Pogh, Roupen I, Cilician Armenia, Armenian coin, bronze coin, numismatics

Introduction

The Æ Pogh coin, issued under the leadership of Roupen I in Cilician Armenia, stands as a significant piece in the realm of numismatics. This bronze coin, minted between 1080 and 1095, offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of medieval Armenia. Collectors and historians alike value this coin not only for its rarity but also for the stories it tells about the Armenian kingdom during a pivotal era in its history.

Historical Background

The Æ Pogh was issued during the reign of Roupen I, the founder of the Roupenian dynasty in Cilician Armenia. This period was marked by the establishment of a semi-independent Armenian principality in the wake of the Byzantine Empire's waning influence in the region. Roupen I, a pivotal figure in Armenian history, laid the foundations for what would become a flourishing Armenian kingdom. The issuance of this coin symbolizes the assertion of Armenian identity and sovereignty during a time of political fragmentation in the Near East.

Coin Images

Coin obverse image Obverse

Coin reverse image Reverse

Design Features

The design of the Æ Pogh reflects the artistry and cultural symbolism of its time. On the obverse, the coin features a cross-in-circle motif, surrounded by Armenian script. This design element not only serves as a religious symbol but also as a representation of the Christian faith, which was central to Armenian identity. The reverse mirrors this design, further emphasizing the importance of the cross in Armenian culture. The inscriptions, although worn with age, provide a linguistic link to the past, offering insights into the language and script used during Roupen I's reign.

Technical Specifications

The Æ Pogh is crafted from bronze, a common material choice for coinage in the medieval period due to its durability and accessibility. The coin weighs approximately 1.69 grams and measures 21.00 mm in diameter. These dimensions are typical for coins of this era, designed for ease of use in everyday transactions. The coin's composition and specifications make it a durable artifact, capable of withstanding the passage of time.

Collectible Value

As a numismatic piece, the Æ Pogh of Roupen I holds significant value. Its rarity is attributed to the limited minting period and the historical context of its issuance. Collectors prize this coin for its connection to the early Armenian principality and its representation of medieval Armenian coinage. The rarity and historical significance of the Æ Pogh often result in a high market value, making it a sought-after piece among collectors specializing in medieval or Armenian numismatics.

Conclusion

The Æ Pogh coin of Roupen I is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in Armenian history. Its unique design and historical significance make it an invaluable addition to any numismatic collection. As a testament to the Armenian spirit and identity during a time of change and challenge, this coin continues to captivate collectors and historians alike. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of numismatics, the Æ Pogh offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, enriching our understanding of medieval Armenia and its enduring legacy.

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