🪙 Ancient Judaea, Widow’s Mite, Alexander Jannaeus, 103-76 B.C.E., Bronze Prutah
This bronze prutah, minted between 103-76 B.C.E. under the rule of Alexander Jannaeus, is famously known as the “Widow’s Mite,” referenced in the Bible in both Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4. These biblical passages recount the story of Jesus observing a poor widow offering two such coins at the temple in Jerusalem, a gesture that symbolized her profound faith and sacrifice.
Obverse: The obverse side of the coin features an anchor, a symbol that Alexander Jannaeus adopted from the Greek Seleucid kings as a representation of royal power. Surrounding the anchor is Greek script, marking Jannaeus’ name and his title as king. Alexander Jannaeus was the first Jewish king to use the title “king” on his coinage, positioning himself on equal standing with the Hellenistic rulers of the surrounding regions.
Reverse: The reverse side displays a star with eight rays, surrounded by a diadem. The Hebrew script around the star reads “Yehonatan the king,” further emphasizing his role as a sovereign ruler. The star likely symbolized divine favor and the guiding light of the Jewish people under Jannaeus’ reign.
Historical Context: This bronze prutah weighs 1.1 grams and measures 15 mm, making it one of the smallest and lowest denomination coins circulating in Judaea at the time. Despite its modest value, the prutah holds immense historical and religious significance due to its association with the biblical account of the Widow’s Mite and its connection to the reign of Alexander Jannaeus, who was the nephew of the famous Jewish hero Judah Maccabee.
Condition: The coin is in good condition, with the anchor and star designs still clearly visible. The Greek and Hebrew inscriptions, although worn, remain identifiable, offering a tangible link to the era of Alexander Jannaeus and the cultural and political context of ancient Judaea.
Significance: As one of the most famous coins in history, the “Widow’s Mite” represents not only a piece of economic history but also a symbol of faith, charity, and sacrifice, as immortalized in the teachings of Jesus. Its association with the Jewish Hasmonean dynasty, and specifically with Alexander Jannaeus, further adds to its significance as a historical artifact.
This bronze prutah is guaranteed authentic, offering collectors and historians a genuine piece of ancient Judaean history. Its connection to both biblical narratives and Jewish history makes it a valuable and highly sought-after coin for collectors of ancient numismatics.
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