½ Ma'ah-Obol "Shema coin" Judea 539 BC - 332 BC
| Silver | 0.28 g | - |
| Issuer | Satrapy of Yehud Medinata (Achaemenid Satrapies) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 539 BC - 332 BC |
| Value | ½ Ma'ah-Obol = 1⁄48 Shekel |
| Currency | Shekel (539-332 BCE) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.28 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#92717 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Falcon with wings spread, head right
Lettering: יהד
Translation: Judah
Comment
Gerson suggests that "the ear has to do with the Shema prayer, bedrock of Jewish liturgy and ethical monotheism: 'Hear O Israel, the Lord Our God, the Lord is one.'" This, then is the "Shema coin"
When one side of the coin is shown significantly larger than the other in a composite, this means that one die was notably larger than the other.
David Hendin Guide to Biblical Coins Fifth Edition
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the ½ Ma'ah-Obol "Shema coin" is that it was used as a form of payment for the Jewish Temple tax during the Second Temple period. The coin's design features the Hebrew inscription "Shema Yisrael," which translates to "Hear, O Israel," and is a reference to the Jewish prayer known as the Shema. The coin's silver content and small weight made it an ideal currency for everyday transactions, and its use as a temple tax payment highlights its significance in Jewish history and culture.