Copper-alloy, 0.87 grams, 22.53 mm. Circa 13th-14th century AD. A copper-alloy badge formed in the shape of a cross-crosslet, the symbol of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre. The spaces between the arms of the cross are voided and an incised border runs around the outer border of the upper surface. The 'Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem' was an order of knighthood under the protection of the Pope, formed around 1099 AD by Duke Godfrey of Bouillon, the leader of the First Crusade. It was established for the protection of pilgrims travelling to the Holy land and was recognised by a papal Bull in about 1113 AD. Reference: Mitchiner, M. Medieval Pilgrim & Secular Badges, London, 1986 items 939-41. Very fine condition. Provenance: found Tilbury, Essex, UK.