Editing Roger II of Sicily (section)

===Economy===
[[File:RogerIIofSicilySilverDucaleBrindisiMint.jpg|thumb|Coin of Roger II of Sicily, silver Ducale, Brindisi mint.]]
Roger's reforms in laws and administration aimed not only to strengthen his rule but also to improve the economic standing of Sicily and [[southern Italy]].  He was "very concerned to gain money, but hardly very prodigal in expending it".{{sfn|Houben|2002|p=159}}

In 1140 at his assembly at Ariano he introduced new coinage including smaller denominations, to facilitate trade with the rest of the Mediterranean.  However, although this new coinage made long-distance trade easier, it was detrimental to local trade, which spread "hatred throughout Italy".{{sfn|Houben|2002|p=159}}  By the 1150s most of this coinage was no longer in use and soon after, it disappeared altogether.

Nevertheless, the controversy over the coinage did not hinder the Kingdom's prosperity.  Roger II had acquired large wealth not only through his royal patrimony but also through his military campaigns and their financial rewards.  For example, gold and silver were gained through the campaigns in Apulia in 1133 and Greece in 1147.{{sfn|Houben|2002|p=161}}

Sicily's geographic situation at the centre of the [[Mediterranean]] favored trade with Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Its primary export was [[durum wheat]]; others included foods like cheese and vine fruits. Unlike other states, Sicily also had a strong political and military standing, so its merchants were supported and to some extent protected.{{sfn|Houben|2002|p=164}} This standing allowed for an increase in internal trade and a stronger market, which led to noticeable developments in agriculture.{{sfn|Houben|2002|p=163}}