1138-1194

A tarì (from Arabic meaning "fresh" or "newly minted money") was the Christian designation of a type of gold coin of Islamic origin minted in Sicily, Malta and Southern Italy from about 913 to the 13th century. Tancred was King of Sicily from 1189 to 1194. He was born in Lecce an illegitimate son of Roger III, Duke of Apulia (the eldest son of King Roger II) by his mistress Emma, a daughter of Achard II, Count of Lecce. He inherited the title "Count of Lecce" from his grandfather and is consequently often referred to as Tancred of Lecce. Due to his short stature and unhandsome visage, he was mocked by his critics as "The Monkey King". Tancred seized control of Sicily after the death of his predecessor, William II and successfully defended Sicily from invasions by the crusading armies of Richard I of England, Phillip II of France and Henry IV, King of the Romans. When Richard I and Tancred agreed to a treaty, it was said that Richard presented Tancred with the legendary sword Excalibur as a token of friendship.