Reynette of Koblenz

Reynette of Koblenz is one of the most successful Jewish moneylenders [SC1] in the Rhineland region. After moving from the small town of Münstermaifeld in the Electorate of Trier to Koblenz, she single-handedly runs her husband’s credit institution following his death and achieves impressive business growth with her economic achievements both in the town and in locations further up the Rhine. Her business partners include towns like Andernach and individuals such as counts, clerics, knights and even the Archbishop of Mainz, whom she lends several thousand gulden – a clear sign of her success. Her story demonstrates that Jewish women had a significantly greater influence on shaping the economy than is often assumed.